ALAR LIGAMENTS Meaning and
Definition
-
Alar ligaments are a pair of ligaments located in the upper cervical region of the spine. These ligaments play a crucial role in stabilizing and supporting the atlanto-axial joint, which is the joint between the first and second vertebrae of the neck.
The alar ligaments, also known as the check ligaments, connect the dens, a bony projection on the second cervical vertebra called axis, to the medial sides of the occipital condyles, which are the rounded surfaces on the base of the skull. The primary function of these ligaments is to restrict excessive rotation and lateral flexion of the head and upper cervical spine, thus providing stability to the joint complex.
The alar ligaments consist of dense, fibrous connective tissue, composed mainly of collagen fibers. These ligaments are relatively short and strong, allowing them to bear substantial stress and resist excessive movement of the atlas (first cervical vertebra) and axis (second cervical vertebra). They are situated on either side of the dens and form a V-shaped arrangement, which contributes to their stability-enhancing function.
Injuries to the alar ligaments can lead to significant instability of the atlanto-axial joint and may result in conditions such as atlanto-axial instability or subluxation. Damage to these ligaments often occurs in conjunction with other cervical spine injuries and can cause pain, restricted range of motion, and potential neurological complications. Treatment for alar ligament injuries typically involves immobilization, therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention to restore stability to the spine.
-
Lateral expansions of the ligamentum mucosum of the knee-joint.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ALAR LIGAMENTS
- zlar ligaments
- slar ligaments
- wlar ligaments
- qlar ligaments
- akar ligaments
- apar ligaments
- aoar ligaments
- alzr ligaments
- alsr ligaments
- alwr ligaments
- alqr ligaments
- alae ligaments
- alad ligaments
- alaf ligaments
- alat ligaments
- ala5 ligaments
- ala4 ligaments
- alar kigaments
- alar pigaments
- alar oigaments
Etymology of ALAR LIGAMENTS
The word "alar" comes from the Latin word "alaris", which means "wing" or "winged". The term "ligament" is derived from the Latin word "ligamentum", meaning "band" or "tie". Therefore, "alar ligaments" refers to the ligaments that resemble or are in the shape of wings or wingspan. These ligaments are found in the upper cervical spine and help stabilize and support the skull and the atlas (the first cervical vertebra).
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
