The Neck Flexion Test measures how far the client can bend the head and neck forward. It is useful for tracking cervical ROM, comparing baseline and follow-up, and recording symptoms during neck movement.
A client may report stiffness when looking down, discomfort while working at a desk or reduced neck movement during sport or daily tasks. The Neck Flexion Test provides a repeatable way to record forward neck ROM and symptom response.
The MAT article describes the client sitting or standing, with the Measurz inclinometer placed on top of the head. The client flexes the neck forward as far as possible and the result is saved. The MAT source lists at least 60 degrees as a practical reference.
Test name: Neck Flexion Test
Purpose: Assess cervical flexion ROM
What it assesses: Ability to bend the head/neck forward
Equipment: Measurz inclinometer
Key finding: Neck flexion angle in degrees
Best used with: Neck extension, lateral flexion, rotation, symptom history and upper-quarter movement assessment
Key limitation: It measures ROM, not the cause of symptoms
The Neck Flexion Test measures cervical flexion ROM using a device positioned on the head.
It is used to assess baseline neck flexion, track progress and monitor symptoms during forward neck movement.
It measures cervical flexion ROM in degrees. It does not diagnose neck pain, headache source, posture issues or strength.
This is usually an active ROM test. The client moves the neck themselves. Record any assistance or modification.
Desk workers, athletes, drivers, gym clients, clients with neck mobility goals and anyone where cervical ROM tracking is relevant.
Measurz inclinometer, chair or standing space, Measurz app and notes for pain, symptoms, dizziness, position and movement quality.
Ask the client to sit or stand upright. Place the Measurz inclinometer on top of the head. Ask the client to flex the neck forward as far as possible. Save the result at maximal ROM.
Stop if dizziness, neurological symptoms, concerning pain or discomfort occurs.
Record neck flexion in degrees. The MAT article lists at least 60 degrees as a practical reference value.
A lower result may provide movement information, but interpretation should include symptoms, movement quality, extension, rotation and lateral flexion findings.
Evidence level: Level 2, related or closest available reference values.
Use at least 60 degrees as a practical MAT reference, not a universal rule.
A 2022 systematic review found that smartphone applications for neck ROM measurement generally show good-to-excellent reliability, although evidence quality and app type vary. A 2020 study comparing digital inclinometer, smartphone apps and CROM device also supports the need to standardise device and direction of movement.
Common errors include moving the trunk, inconsistent head placement, pushing through symptoms, changing seated/standing position and not recording dizziness or pain.
Use this test to monitor neck flexion ROM, compare sessions and add context to desk work, sport, driving and upper-quarter movement.
Record flexion angle, pain score, symptom location, dizziness, position, device placement, baseline score, retest score and related neck ROM findings.
Neck Extension Test
Neck Lateral Flexion Test
Neck Rotation Test
Shoulder Flexion Test
Thoracic Rotation Test
Posture notes
It measures forward neck bending ROM.
The MAT source lists at least 60 degrees.
Yes. Record pain, dizziness, tingling or other symptoms.
Yes, but record the position and use the same one for retesting.
The Neck Flexion Test measures cervical flexion ROM.
Head placement must be consistent.
Record symptoms and position.
Use reference values cautiously.
Track change in Measurz.
Ghorbani, F., Kamyab, M., Azadinia, F., & Ahmadi, A. (2020). The reliability and concurrent validity of digital inclinometer, smartphone applications, and the cervical range of motion device for measuring cervical range of motion. Iranian Rehabilitation Journal, 18(4), 415–424.
Keogh, J. W. L., et al. (2022). Measurement properties of smartphone applications for the measurement of neck range of motion: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23, 138.
Fraeulin, L., et al. (2020). Intra- and inter-rater reliability of joint range of motion tests using tape measure, digital inclinometer and inertial motion capturing. PLOS ONE, 15(12), e0243646.
