Neck Lateral Bending Passive

Starting Position

Head level, looking straight ahead.

Ending position

Head inclined toward the shoulder.

Clinical Significance

Normal neck lateral bend is 45. The angle measured is between the vertical axis and the midaxis of the face.

Although the extent of motion is usually best checked with passive motion (to exclude loss of motion due to motor failure), many physicians are reluctant to test head and neck motion passively–it’s too reminiscent of something from pro wrestling (ie, potentially harmful!)

Limitations here could be from generalized arthritis, scoliosis or pain due to cervical nerve root compression.