ATLANTO AXIAL JOINT ANATOMY
The Atlas (C1) is the first bone in the neck. It is quite unlike any other bone in the body - it is simply a ring, with facets above and below which articulate with it's nearest neighbours - the Occiput above, and the Axis (C2) below. The Axis (C2) too is quite unique. It is not unlike the other neck vertebrae, except that it has peg (called the Dens) jutting straight upwards. The Atlas rotates on this Dens, giving the neck about 50% of its rotation.
The spinal cord, perhaps the most sensitive tissue in the body, passes down through the Atlas and Axis, carrying vital information to and from the body. Because of this intimate relationship in the Atlanto-Axial Joint anatomy, subluxations of the Atlas have a profoundly negative effect on the body.
Read more about the effect whiplash research may have on your choice of treatment for your neck pain. WHIPLASH RESEARCH. Facet JointsThere is no disc between the Atlas and the Axis. Thus the facet joints, and numerous ligaments of course, provide the only stability between the two bones. Early chiropractors, known for a reason that escapes me as 'hole in one', adjusted only the atlas. If you consulted him/her with low back pain, only your atlas would be adjusted. Newer findings confirm that there is an intimate relationship between the Atlas and L5, the most common cause of low back pain. CERVICAL FACET SYNDROME ...The Greater Occipital nerveThis nerve emerges between the Atlas and the Axis, and supplies the base of the skull, the so-called Occipital region. Irritation of the Greater Occipital nerve is probably the most frequent cause of headaches located at the top of the neck, especially the C1-C2 or Atlanto Axial joint anatomy. It's an area that chiropractors specialise in.SAFETYJust how safe is manipulation of the upper neck? Are there dangers? Could you have a stroke?There simple answer is yes, there are dangers. Having said that, the chances of you having a stroke chiropractic episode are so slight that you can to all intents ignore it. Depending on which research you read, about 1 / 6 000 000 manipulations will cause a serious injury. Ever seen the Kidney Olympics? You'll quickly realise the dangers of swallowing bucket loads of pills for your headaches is far, far, far more dangerous.
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