What to do about atlantoaxial asymmetry

Cervical occipitomaxillary band traction should be maintained in atlantoaxial asymmetry. Atlantoaxial asymmetry is mainly due to atlantoaxial subluxation or atlantoaxial sprain resulting in left-right gap asymmetry. If atlantoaxial asymmetry occurs in adolescents, infants, or young children, it is most likely due to atlantoaxial subluxation, and it can be treated by maintaining cervical occipitomandibular band traction. When cervical occipito-mandibular band traction is performed, the traction time is usually about 1 to 2 weeks, and the traction weight is kept within 3 kg. Cervical X-rays are performed once a week to check the atlantoaxial joint restoration. After the atlantoaxial joint is repositioned, a neck brace or cervical-thoracic brace should be worn for 1 to 2 weeks. In addition, localized physiotherapy can be used according to the doctor’s recommendation to achieve the best results.