What Causes Craniocervical Instability

The craniocervical junction is the place where the skull and the upper spinal cord meet. Craniocervical instability, also known as the syndrome of Occipitoatlantialaxial Hypermobility, is a pathological condition that causes structural weakness in the craniocervical junction. This instability might lead to the deformation of the upper spinal cord, brain stem, and cerebellum.

CAUSES

The different reasons for craniocervical instability to occur might include:

1.Ehlers-danlos Syndrome – This is the syndrome that affects the connective tissues in the body. This condition loosens the ligaments and muscles that hold the parts of the body. It is one of the primary reasons that might lead to craniocervical instability. It is estimated that 1 in 15 people suffering from Ehlers-Danlons syndrome will develop craniocervical instability.

2.Physical Trauma – Any form of physical injuries like accidents, neck injury, or blow to the head that affects the connecting nerves or ligaments can lead to the development of craniocervical instability.

3.Neoplasms – Abnormal growth of cells(tumors) that do not promote the growth of other cells are called neoplasms. Conditions like a bone cyst or blood vessels clot near the cranial nerves might lead to cervical instability.

4.Inflammatory Diseases – Conditions like arthritis that cause swelling or inflammation of the joints might also be one of the reasons for the development of the condition.

5. Congenital– the diseases like downs syndrome or dwarfism that are present from the birth might also cause instability in the craniocervical junction.

6.Nerve Dysfunction – repetitive stress or stretching that occurs on the craniocervical nerves might lead to instability.

7. Cranial Settling – It is the condition when the skull sinks downward on the spine, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves and muscles. The pressure exerted might lead to instability in the cervical region.

8.Retro Flexed Odontoid – Misaligned odontoid bone can be caused due to loose ligaments that push backward, which in turn compresses the brain stem causing instability.

Craniocervical instability can be identified with signs such as severe headaches, pressure headaches, neck pain, facial pain, muscle weakness, sleep apnea, and many more.

Usually, the condition is diagnosed using MRI and CT scans or by Invasive Cervical Traction. The most common treatment method is to perform a craniocervical fusion.

For any neurological related problems, contact Dr.Shyam Sundar K, One of the leading neurologists based in Chennai.

Reviewed By: Dr Shyam Sundar K
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