Which statement about the cervical facet joints is true?

Which statement about the cervical facet joints is true?

• A. They are large and roomy
• B. They are small and tight
• C. They are flat and non-mobile
• D. They are absent at most levels

Answer: (A)

Cervical facet joints are designed to permit a lot of neck movement. They have relatively large joint spaces and well-shaped articular surfaces that allow the facets to glide smoothly as you flex, extend, bend to the sides, and rotate. Their oblique orientation—roughly 45 degrees to the sagittal plane—facilitates motion in multiple directions, unlike regions where movement is more restricted. They are present at every cervical level and form true joints with synovial capsules, so they are not flat, non-mobile structures. Because of this mobility and roomy joint space, describing them as large and roomy accurately reflects their function in the neck.

Cervical facet joints are designed to permit a lot of neck movement. They have relatively large joint spaces and well-shaped articular surfaces that allow the facets to glide smoothly as you flex, extend, bend to the sides, and rotate. Their oblique orientation—roughly 45 degrees to the sagittal plane—facilitates motion in multiple directions, unlike regions where movement is more restricted. They are present at every cervical level and form true joints with synovial capsules, so they are not flat, non-mobile structures. Because of this mobility and roomy joint space, describing them as large and roomy accurately reflects their function in the neck.