As rehabilitation experts, you've likely treated countless clients with back and hip pain. But have you considered the role of the neck in these cases? Surprisingly, the neck can be a key contributor to pain in areas much further down the body, including the hips.

How Is the Neck Connected to the Hips?

It may seem counterintuitive, but the spine’s anatomy and the dura mater (the pain-sensitive membrane surrounding the spinal cord) create an interconnected system. When the dura is compromised at one end—say, in the neck—it can cause problems further down the kinetic chain, even affecting the hips and lower back.

Take the case of a former competitive figure skater who came to me with ongoing hip, sacroiliac joint (SIJ), and knee pain. What began as knee pain after a downhill sprint with her son spread to the hip, accompanied by tingling and electrical sensations down her leg.

Given her history as a hypermobile athlete, my focus immediately shifted to possible neurological involvement stemming from the spine.

What We Found

Through postural and neurodynamic testing, it became clear that her neck was a key driver of her hip and knee pain. Among the findings:

Posture: Compression in the upper lumbar and mid-cervical regions.

Central Neurodynamic Testing: Dural tension from the cervical and thoracic segments (R > L).

Myotome Testing: L1/2 inhibition on the right side.

Neck Mobility: 50% flexion limited by tension from the myodural bridge.

Interestingly, orthopaedic testing of her hip and knee showed no significant pathology. It was the history of whiplash, spinal trauma, and even childbirth that contributed to her spinal hypermobility and, ultimately, her current pains

What Does This Mean for Your Clients?

If your clients present with low back, hip, or knee pain and you’ve ruled out direct injuries in those areas, consider exploring the neck. Over time, unresolved cervical instability or a history of concussion or whiplash can create lasting problems throughout the body.

Next time you see a client with these complaints, try manual muscle testing with their neck in various positions. You might be surprised by what you find—and how addressing the neck can resolve issues further down the kinetic chain.

To see an example of how to muscle test with the neck in an extended position you can see it here HERE.

This can apply to any muscle group around the area of pain, but it just emphasises that the neck needs to be involved with your treatment plan or at least integrated with come corrective exercises to up regulate the nervous system.

Want to Learn How to Do This in Your Practice?

Our Advanced Movement Therapy (AMT) certification teaches you how to integrate Kinetic Chain Muscle Testing (KCMT) and functional neurology into your orthopedic practice. You’ll be able to pinpoint hidden sources of pain and help clients recover faster.

Ready to Add Precision to Your Practice?

Register now for the AMT Certification and reserve your spot in our next live coaching class starting January 2025. Space is limited!

Register Today

Keep striving for greatness,

Tommy Swales
Founder, AMT System
www.amtcertified.ca