Spinal Neurological Disease Practice Test

Atlantoaxial instability endangers the spinal cord at the upper cervical level, so the definitive approach is surgical fusion of the atlantoaxial articulation to permanently stabilize C1–C2. While immobilization, rest, and NSAIDs may help with pain or provide temporary stabilization, they do not correct the underlying instability and cannot reliably prevent neurological injury. Physical therapy isn’t able to restore stability and can be harmful by promoting movement at the unstable joint. Antibiotics aren’t indicated unless there’s an infection. Fusion provides durable stabilization, though it may limit some neck motion.