Neck spine (cervical spine) X-ray
Quick answer: A cervical spine X-ray shows the seven bones of the neck, the spaces between them and their alignment. Doctors order it for neck pain, stiffness, injury or arm tingling. Bending views check for abnormal movement, and the open mouth view shows the top two neck bones.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the number of views
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed, but remove metal items from the area and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
How the test is done
- 1You remove earrings, necklaces and hair clips, which can hide the neck bones
- 2You stand or sit with the side or front of your neck against the plate
- 3For the open mouth view you open wide while the picture is taken
- 4For bending views you tip your head forward, then back, as far as is comfortable
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A radiologist reports on the images, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
The X-ray can show a fracture, loss of the normal neck curve, narrowed disc spaces, bony spurs from wear (cervical spondylosis), or bones that move too much on bending views. Discs and nerves themselves do not show, so an MRI may be needed for arm symptoms.
Who usually has this test
People with neck pain or stiffness, tingling down an arm, or a neck injury from a fall or road accident.
Risks and aftercare
Bending views can feel stiff if your neck is sore, so only move as far as is comfortable; the dose is low, and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
Names and options
Also called: C-spine X-ray, cervical spine X-ray, neck X-ray, open mouth view
Options
- Front view (AP)
- Side view (lateral)
- Front and side views (AP and lateral)
- Bending forward and back (flexion and extension)
- Angled view (oblique)
- Angled views, both sides
- Open mouth view (top two neck bones)
Listed by the hospital as
- C.SPINE AP DIGITAL X-RAY
- C.SPINE AP, LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- C.SPINE EXTENSION & FLEXION DIGITAL X-RAY
- C.SPINE LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- C.SPINE OBLIQUE DIGITAL X-RAY
- C.SPINE OBLIQUE (BOTH) DIGITAL X-RAY
- OPEN MOUTH VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
What is cervical spondylosis on an X-ray?
It means age-related wear of the neck bones and discs, seen as narrowed spaces and small bony growths. It is very common after middle age and does not always cause symptoms.
Can a neck X-ray show a slipped disc?
No, discs are soft and do not show directly on X-ray. A narrowed disc space can hint at a problem, but an MRI is needed to see a disc pressing on a nerve.
Why do I need to open my mouth for a neck X-ray?
The open mouth view lets the top two neck bones be seen without the teeth and jaw in the way. It is mainly used after injury.
Related tests
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.