Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

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What is Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis?

Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis is a condition characterized by the degeneration of the atlantoaxial joint, located between the first and second cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2). This form of osteoarthritis can lead to significant neck pain and reduced mobility, particularly affecting the elderly or individuals with a history of neck trauma.

Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis Statistics

  • The prevalence of atlantoaxial osteoarthritis increases with age, affecting up to 93% of individuals over 70 years old.
  • Women are more commonly affected, with approximately 74% of symptomatic cases occurring in females.
  • Source: PubMed
  • Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis Anatomy

  • The atlantoaxial joint involves the articulation between the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae.
  • This joint allows for a significant range of rotational movement in the neck.
  • Degeneration affects cartilage, synovium, ligaments, and muscles, leading to pain and restricted movement.
  • Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis
    Signs & Symptoms

  • Unilateral neck pain, often aggravated by head rotation.
  • Pain may radiate to the occiput, parietal skull, and occasionally the eye.
  • Audible crepitation (crackling sound) during head movement.
  • Muscle spasms and limited range of motion in the neck.
  • Causes of Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

  • Idiopathic degeneration, particularly in the elderly.
  • Post-traumatic osteoarthritis following neck injuries.
  • Chronic head loading or repetitive stress on the cervical spine.
  • Risk Factors for Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

  • Age: Higher prevalence with increasing age.
  • Gender: More common in females.
  • History of neck trauma or injury.
  • Repetitive cervical spine stress or chronic head loading.
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    Prevalence of Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

  • Approximately 4-8% prevalence in the general population, increasing with age.
  • Higher prevalence in individuals with a history of odontoid fractures.
  • Assessment & Diagnosis of Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

  • Clinical evaluation focusing on pain location, duration, and aggravating factors.
  • Physical examination including range of motion tests and palpation for pain and muscle spasms.
  • Imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to confirm joint degeneration and rule out other pathologies.
  • Intra-articular blocks can help confirm the diagnosis and identify the pain source.
  • Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy for Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis

  • Neck support exercises to strengthen the cervical spine and reduce pain.
  • Manual therapy, including manipulations and mobilizations, to improve joint function and alleviate symptoms.
  • Low-power laser therapy and pulsed electromagnetic fields for pain relief and muscle relaxation.
  • Infra-red stimulation of local trigger points for short-term pain relief.
  • Massage therapy for reducing muscle tension and improving mobility, though its long-term effectiveness is debated.
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    Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis FAQs

    The symptoms include unilateral neck pain, especially with head rotation, radiating pain to the occiput or eye, muscle spasms, and audible crepitation during neck movement.

    Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to confirm joint degeneration.

    Yes, physiotherapy can help manage symptoms by improving neck strength, mobility, and reducing pain through targeted exercises and manual therapy.

    Atlantoaxial Osteoarthritis References