Mobility of the upper cervical spine in health and disease.

Abstract

Four cases of cervical subluxation have been presented due to muscle spasm in the cervical region, which occurred during an upper respiratory infection. This syndrome differs from the atlanto-axial subluxation. Roentgenograms in the diagnosis of this condition may lead to erroneous diagnosis and treatment. The normal anatomic and functional ranges of the cervical spine were studied and are discussed. The degree of mobility of the cervical spine is greater than previously assumed.