Which movement can the neck not perform?

The movement that the neck cannot perform is lateral abduction. In the context of human anatomy, lateral abduction refers to the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body, which is typically associated with the limbs themselves, such as the arms or legs. The neck, being part of the vertebral column and primarily designed for supporting the head and enabling its movement, does not have the capability to perform this action.

The neck is capable of several other types of movements. For example, rotation involves turning the head side to side. Lateral flexion allows the head to move from side to side, bringing the ear closer to the shoulder, and flexion/extension refers to tilting the head forward and backward. These movements are facilitated by the cervical spine and the associated musculature, allowing for a range of motion essential for daily activities and effective communication.