Atlantoxial Dislocation

The first two vertebrae in the spine are the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), which sit directly beneath the head. Ligaments and blood arteries that travel through the spine to supply the brain are grouped together at the atlas and axis vertebrae. Atlantoaxial subluxation refers to a small misalignment or dislocation of the C1 and C2 cervical vertebrae. The atlas and axis are the only two vertebrae in the spine that do not look or function like the others. C1-C2 subluxation, like any other type of bodily injury or damage, can manifest at varying degrees of severity, necessitating a tailored approach to care. The severity of the dislocation should be the primary consideration in determining the type of care it requires.