Calcification of the alar ligament is a rare condition, which usually develops in the elderly and tends to occur following traumatic injury or as a consequence of inflammatory disease. In crowned dens syndrome, calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate crystals deposit on the atlantoaxial joint.
What is a nuchal ligament?
The ligamentum nuchae is a large median ligament composed of tendons and fascia located between the posterior muscles of the neck. It covers the spines of C1 to C6 vertebrae. In quadriped animals, it is very strong and functions in keeping the neck and head of the animal up.
Can you feel the nuchal ligament?
You should be able to easily feel the nuchal ligament in your neck (I could not due to the restrictions in surrounding tissues.) Extend your head backward and press your fingers on the midline of the back of your neck.
Why is the nuchal ligament important?
Function. It is a tendon-like structure that has developed independently in humans and other animals well adapted for running. In some four-legged animals, particularly ungulates, the nuchal ligament serves to sustain the weight of the head.
What is the function of the nuchal ligament?
The nuchal ligament limits forward flexion of the head and the cervical spine. It also serves as the attachment for some major muscles.
What is supraspinous ligament?
The supraspinous ligament or supraspinal ligament is a strong fibrous cord that connects together the apices of the spinous processes from the seventh cervical vertebra to 3rd or 4th lumbar vertebrae.
What muscles attach to nuchal ligament?
The trapezius and splenius capitis muscle attach to the nuchal ligament.
How many nuchal lines are there?
The nuchal lines are four curved lines on the external surface of the occipital bone: The upper, often faintly marked, is named the highest nuchal line, but is sometimes referred to as the Mempin line or linea suprema, and it attaches to the epicranial aponeurosis.
