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 side.

Play a role in stabilizing C1 and C2, especially in rotation[1].

Pathology[edit | edit source]

Injured in rear end motor vehicle collisions when the cervical spine is in extremes of rotation.

Examination
[edit | edit source]

Alar ligament test

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Magee DJ (2007). Orthopedic Physical Assessment (5th ed). St Louis, MO: Saunders Elsevier.