How should a patient be able to move their neck during assessment?

A patient should be able to move their neck in a full range of motion during an assessment. This means they should be able to tilt their head from side to side, rotate it left and right, and flex and extend it without any significant restriction or pain. Full range of motion indicates healthy musculoskeletal and neurological function in the neck.

Being able to move the neck freely allows for proper assessment of the cervical spine and surrounding structures. Limitations in neck movement can indicate underlying issues such as musculoskeletal problems, neurological deficits, or even conditions like cervical spondylosis.

The other options suggest varying degrees of limitations or difficulties in neck movement, which would not be expected in a healthy assessment. Restricted movement or difficulty can point to potential injury, inflammation, or other pathologies requiring further evaluation. Thus, the ability to demonstrate a full range of motion is indicative of normal, healthy function.