Which structure is listed under Soft Tissue Palpation of the cervical spine?

• A. Hyoid bone
• B. Thyroid gland
• C. Spinous processes of C2-C7
• D. Inion

Answer: (B)

Soft tissue palpation in the cervical region focuses on structures within the neck's soft tissues rather than the bones. The thyroid gland fits this, as it is a soft tissue endocrine gland located in the anterior neck just below the laryngeal area and is typically palpated to assess its size or presence of enlargement. Its movement with swallowing is a key clue that you’re palpating a thyroid tissue rather than a rigid structure. In contrast, the hyoid bone, the spinous processes of C2–C7, and the external occipital protuberance (inion) are bony landmarks or structures, not soft tissue, so they aren’t considered part of soft tissue palpation.