Apical Breathing Pattern Check
Setup
Client seated upright, hands on lap. Camera from the front showing neck and shoulders.
Cueing
Step 1: 'Take a deep breath in.' Step 2: Observe: do the shoulders rise significantly toward the ears? Does the neck tense (SCM and scalene activation visible)? This indicates an apical (upper chest) breathing pattern. POSITIVE = shoulders rise >2 cm, neck accessory muscles visible. NEGATIVE = shoulders stay level, expansion occurs laterally and anteriorly.
Measurement
Boolean: apical pattern present (true) or absent (false). Note severity: mild (slight shoulder rise), moderate (visible SCM), severe (no lateral expansion at all).
Modality
FAQ
What muscles does Apical Breathing Pattern Check work?
Apical Breathing Pattern Check primarily targets the Full Body. It is classified as a professional-level assessment test.
How do you perform Apical Breathing Pattern Check correctly?
Client seated upright, hands on lap. Camera from the front showing neck and shoulders. Step 1: 'Take a deep breath in.' Step 2: Observe: do the shoulders rise significantly toward the ears? Does the neck tense (SCM and scalene activation visible)? This indicates an apical (upper chest) breathing pattern. POSITIVE = shoulders rise >2 cm, neck accessory muscles visible. NEGATIVE = shoulders stay level, expansion occurs laterally and anteriorly.
What equipment is needed for Apical Breathing Pattern Check?
Apical Breathing Pattern Check requires Assessment Kit. It is categorized as a Pattern Analysis assessment test.
Related Exercises
ASIS Palpation Tutorial
Axial Stack Assessment (Neutral Position)
Breath Hold Time (BOLT Score)
Breathing Pattern Classification (3 Patterns)
Diaphragmatic Breathing Assessment
Flow Motion Gait Screen (3D Movement Assessment)
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