What happened to the atlantoaxial joint?

The atlantoaxial and cardinal joints are somewhat misaligned due to the poor stability of the atlantoaxial joint, which is prone to subluxation or deviation due to the fact that it is required to perform most of the rotational movements of the head. Atlantoaxial joint subluxations can occur in multiple directions, similar to the direction of rotation, with close to twenty directions of subluxation such as forward, upward, downward, and rotational. Atlantoaxial subluxation can cause tilting of the head and neck, accompanied by dizziness and headache, as well as the development of neck pain and stiffness, etc. Pain in the greater occipital nerve, which passes through the joint posteriorly, as well as spinal cord compression, can also be present. Often, on x-ray open position examination, an asymmetry in the spacing between the odontoid process of the cardinal vertebrae and the atlas vertebrae can be seen, causing subluxation. Treatment can usually take the form of traction repositioning and immobilization. If there is any discomfort, it is recommended to consult a regular hospital and follow the doctor’s instructions.