Cervical Spine Disorders Overview

The upper thoracic spinal segments (T3-T4) can move with cervical active motion, even though C6-C7 are typically considered the last moving segments.

These ligaments directly support the dens, which is a crucial component of the articulation between the atlas and axis.

Its function is to limit excessive lateral flexion of the craniocervical junction, protecting the medulla oblongata.

The alar ligament helps to prevent hyperextension, and the apical ligament helps to prevent excessive traction on the head.

The integrity of these ligaments plays a significant role in the stability of the upper cervical spine. Damage to these ligaments, potentially from trauma or disease, can increase the risk of instability.

This test assesses the integrity of the transverse ligament by evaluating the stability of the dens when the head is flexed.

Combined extension and rotation of the neck can significantly reduce blood flow to the vertebral artery.

Manipulation or traction of the upper cervical spine can lead to serious complications, such as stroke, due to vertebral artery compromise.

The foramina transversaria are openings in the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae, present from C1 to C6. They allow passage of the vertebral arteries and veins.

These tubercles provide attachment points for muscles that control movement and stabilize the cervical spine.

The superior surface of the cervical vertebrae body is beveled upward at the sides, allowing for a smooth transition between vertebrae. This creates a unique shape for cervical vertebrae.

The spinous processes of the first six cervical vertebrae are short and forked (bifid). This unique shape helps provide stability and contributes to the flexibility of the cervical spine.

The uncovertebral joint is a small joint between the uncinate process of the superior vertebrae and the inferior surface of the vertebra above. It helps guide and limit movement in the cervical spine.

The facet joints in the middle and lower cervical spine (C2-C3 to C7-T1) are positioned in the sagittal plane and incline upward and forward. This orientation helps bear weight and guide movement.

The facet joints of C1-C2 are more horizontal than those in the lower cervical spine, allowing greater movement, particularly rotation.

The occiput-C1 joints are formed by the convex occipital condyles and the concave superior articular surfaces of the atlas. This allows for gliding movement in the opposite direction to the motion. This is a demonstration of the convex/concave rule.

A test to evaluate the vertebral arteries' ability to handle pressure changes by placing the neck in specific positions, observing for signs such as dizziness, nystagmus, slurring of speech, vision blurring, and loss of consciousness.

Features in a patient's history or physical exam that suggest a higher risk of serious spinal issues and warrant further investigation by a medical professional.

A condition affecting the spinal cord in the neck region, often causing sensory disturbances, muscle weakness, and gait problems.

Conditions caused by the growth of abnormal cells in the body, possibly affecting the neck region.

Weakness or instability in ligaments of the upper cervical spine, potentially causing neck pain and other symptoms.

Infections or autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation in various body systems including the neck.

A temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain, often caused by problems with vertebral arteries, leading to symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness .

Neck pain classified as either stemming from nerves, particularly the spinal cord, or arising from non-specific, often mechanical origins like muscle strain.

A medical model that focuses on identifying the specific condition a patient has, like cervicogenic headache, based on their signs and symptoms.

A medical model that focuses on the specific structures that are dysfunctional, such as facet joints, intervertebral discs, or muscles, causing the patient's symptoms.

Evaluates how movement affects the patient's symptoms. For example, does repeated movement decrease or increase pain?

Groups patients based on their treatment goals and the interventions used to achieve those goals, rather than relying solely on diagnosis or symptoms.

One of the four treatment-based categories for managing neck pain, characterized by limited range of motion and difficulty moving the neck.

One of the four treatment-based categories for managing neck pain, characterized by pain radiating down the arm due to nerve compression.

One of the four treatment-based categories for managing neck pain characterized by instability and difficulty coordinating movements in the neck, often associated with whiplash.

One of the four treatment-based categories for managing neck pain, characterized by headaches originating from the neck.

A test that involves extending, side bending, and compressing the neck to reproduce arm symptoms. It is a common test used to assess for cervical radiculopathy.

A maneuver that stretches the nerves in the arm with the neck in a specific position. Often used to assess for nerve compression in the neck.

A common symptom of cervical radiculopathy where pain radiates down the arm, often into the hand and fingers, following a specific nerve root distribution.

A sign of cervical radiculopathy where muscle weakness is observed in a specific pattern, corresponding to the affected nerve root.

Cervical radiculopathy symptoms are often worsened by side bending, extending, or rotating the neck, as these movements can narrow the space available for the nerve root, causing further compression.

The inability of the spine to maintain its normal displacement under physiological loads, leading to potential damage to the spinal cord, nerve roots, or soft tissues.

A procedure that involves applying gentle traction to the cervical spine, used to alleviate pain and pressure on nerves.

Exercises and techniques aimed at improving the range of motion in the cervical spine.

The zone around the neutral position of the spine where motion occurs with minimal resistance.

The zone at the end range of motion where increased resistance is felt.

A condition where the spinal segments become unstable due to an increased neutral zone and inadequate stabilization by muscles and ligaments.

Abnormal movements during active movement, often seen as sudden accelerations or decelerations.

This test assesses the integrity of the Transverse Ligament, a crucial stabilizer of the dens on the Atlas.

The ability of the neck flexor muscles to maintain a sustained position, indicating muscle strength and endurance.

This test assesses the stability of the craniocervical junction, the connection between the skull and the upper cervical spine.