Atlantoaxial joint

Pang D, Li V (2004) Atlantoaxial rotatory fixation Part 1 - Biomechanics of normal rotation at the atlantoaxial joint in children. Neurosurgery 55 614-625 discussion 625-626... 

There is no true lateral flexion at the atlantoaxial joint, only a wobble created by the articulation of the superior axial and inferior atlantal articular facets. Unlike most facets, these four facets are all convex in shape (Fig. 24-3). During rotation of the atlas on the axis to the right, the left articular facet of the atlas in effect slides uphill on the left articular facet of the axis, while on the right the atlas slides downhill on the axis. This wobble motion is not true lateral flexion. 

Somatic dysfunction at the atlantoaxial joint occurs in rotation. 

The complex of the occipitoatlantal plus the atlantoaxial joints is known as the suboccipital... 

This section describes muscle energy techniques used to treat dysfunctions of the occipi-toatlantal joint, rotational dysfunctions of the atlantoaxial joint, and single dysfunctions of a typical cervical vertebral joint. The procedure should be repeated as many times as is necessary to restore motion to the physiological barrier. However, the techniques are usually repeated a minimum of three times, with the motion barrier engaged at each repetition. 

FIG. 32-2 High-velocity, low-amplitude thrusting technique for somatic dysfunction of the atlantoaxial joint. 

Aufdermaur M (1974) Spinal injuries in juveniles. Necropsy findings in twelve cases. J Bone Joint Surg Br 56B 513-519 Banit D, Murrey SD (2005) Atlantoaxial Instability, http // www.emedicine.com... 

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