Which statement best differentiates neutral somatic dysfunction from restrictive somatic dysfunction?

• A. Neutral dysfunction shows no overt barriers to motion, while restrictive dysfunction has palpable barriers and reduced range of motion in one or more planes.
• B. Neutral dysfunction involves pain, whereas restrictive does not.
• C. Neutral dysfunction only affects the spine; Restrictive only affects the limbs.
• D. Neutral dysfunction is always due to trauma; restrictive is not.

Answer: (A)

Neutral somatic dysfunction is when you test motion and there is no palpable barrier to movement in the joint or region; it moves freely through its planes, even if there may be tenderness or subtle tissue changes. Restrictive somatic dysfunction, on the other hand, shows a palpable barrier that limits motion in one or more planes, producing a reduced range of motion. This difference matters because it guides how you approach treatment: with neutral dysfunction you work with unrestricted motion and address subtle dyscoordination, while with restrictive dysfunction you focus on releasing the palpable barrier to restore normal motion. The other statements don’t fit because pain can occur with either type, dysfunction can involve spine or limbs, and trauma is not what defines these categories.