Alar Ligament Test Special Test

What is it used for?

• Assessing Upper Cervical Instability (specifically the Alar Ligament which stabilizes C2).

How to Perform

• Position: Patient supine.
• Action: Grip the C2 spinous process (back of the upper neck) with a pincer grip.
• Movement: Side-bend or rotate the patient's head slightly.

Interpretation of Results

• Normal: The C2 spinous process should move immediately in the opposite direction of the side-bend.
• Positive (Instability): A lag or delay in C2 movement suggests ligament laxity.

References

1. Orthofixar | Alar Ligament Test
2. Dutton’s Orthopaedic Examination, Evaluation, And Intervention 3rd Edition.