Which muscle group is specifically listed as palpated in the neck examination?

• A. Paracervical muscles
• B. Latissimus dorsi
• C. Pectoralis major
• D. Biceps brachii

Answer: (A)

In neck examination, palpation focuses on the paracervical muscles—the muscles surrounding the cervical spine. Feeling these muscles for tenderness, tension, and any guarding helps determine if neck pain is muscular in origin and whether there are signs of spasm or strain. The other muscles listed reside in the back, chest, or arm and are not part of the standard neck palpation field, so they don’t fit with what is typically assessed in the neck region. Evaluating the paracervical muscles provides direct information about neck muscle involvement and helps guide management such as posture work, stretching, or physical therapy.