Alar ligaments

Description[edit | edit source]

Tectorial membrane.png

Two strong rounded cords that attach the skull to C2 (Axis).

Attachments[edit | edit source]

Arise from either side of the odontoid process and attach to the medial aspect of the occipital condyles.

Function[edit | edit source]

Taut in flexion, limit rotation and side flexion to the opposite site.

Play a role in stabilising C1 and C2, expecially in rotation[1].

Pathology[edit | edit source]

Injured in rear end shunts when cervical spine is in extremes of rotation.

Examination
[edit | edit source]

Alar ligament test

Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]

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References[edit | edit source]

  1. Magee, D. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. Elsevier