---
title: How to position a patient
description: Proper patient positioning, and distance from the screen is important for accurate motion data with The NeckCare System™. This guide outlines the best positions for each assessment and setup.
---

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# How to position a patient

## Proper patient positioning is important for accurate motion data with The NeckCare System™. This guide outlines the best positions for each assessment and setup.

### Before You Begin

- Ensure the NeckCare™ sensor is fully charged and [calibrated](https://help.neckcare.com/how-to-do-an-initial-neckcare-sensor-calibration?hsLang=en).
- Ask the patient to remove hats, headbands, and large earrings.
- Makes sure the patient understands each test and feels safe performing the movements.
- Do not let patients do movements that could make their condition worse.
- The clinician should always monitor for trunk compensation.

### Patient Seating Setup

All assessments begin with the patient seated in

a **firm-backed chair**

- **Back** supported by the chair.
- **Feet** flat on the ground, hip-width apart.
- **Arms** relaxed, resting in the lap—not on armrests or thighs.

![How to Position a Patient (1)](https://help.neckcare.com/hs-fs/hubfs/How%20to%20Position%20a%20Patient%20(1).png?width=670&height=449&name=How%20to%20Position%20a%20Patient%20(1).png)

### **Positioning for Specific Tests**

#### **Range of Motion & Joint Position Error Tests**

- **Monitor orientation:** Patient may face either the monitor or a blank wall.
- Ensure the head starts in a **neutral, upright position**.
- Eyes open for Range of Motion; closed during Joint Position Error.
- Instruct the patient to move only their head, keeping shoulders and trunk still.
- Clinician may stand to the side to observe head and trunk alignment.

#### **The Butterfly Test**

- Patient **must face the computer monitor** directly.
- Seat themat a viewing distance of **90 cm (35 in)** from the center of the screen.
- Adjust the monitor so its **center aligns with the patient’s eye level**.
- Ensure the screen is **perpendicular to the ground**.

### **![Computer Placement (1)](https://help.neckcare.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Computer%20Placement%20(1).png?width=670&height=449&name=Computer%20Placement%20(1).png)**

### **How to Fit the NeckCare™ Headgear**

**1. Prepare the Headgear**

- Pull out the **adjustment dial knob** to loosen.
- Expand the lacing system larger than the patient's head.
- Squeeze the knob to lock it in place.

![Headgear position](https://help.neckcare.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Headgear%20position.png?width=328&height=410&name=Headgear%20position.png)

**2. Place the Headgear**

- Align the **USB charging port to the back of the head**.
- Center the headgear over the skull (not tilted).
- Ensure the **sensor is correctly oriented**.

**3. Secure the Fit**

- Turn the adjustment dial clockwise until snug.
- The headgear **should not move** when the patient turns their head.

**4. Post-Assessment Removal**

- Pull the dial knob to loosen.
- Gently remove the headgear.
- **Turn off the sensor** and **clean the headgear** before next use.

#### ⚠️ Safety and Comfort Reminders

- Keep the device **at least 6 inches away from pacemakers**.
- Clean the headgear after every use to avoid skin irritation.
- If the patient reports discomfort or dizziness, **stop the test immediately**.

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