In the vault hold, which finger is placed on the greater wing of the sphenoid?

• A. Thumbs off
• B. Index on greater wing of sphenoid
• C. Middle on zygomatic process
• D. Ring on asterion

Answer: (B)

The vault hold relies on sensing the cranial base motion by contacting a key sphenoid landmark. Placing the index finger on the greater wing of the sphenoid gives a direct contact point to sense the sphenoid’s movement as it articulates with the temporal bones and occiput, which is central to evaluating the cranial rhythmic impulse. This position allows you to feel subtle shifts and balance the motion across the vault. The thumbs are kept off the head, and the other finger placements aren’t the standard anchors used to monitor this primary sphenoidal motion.