Atlanto-occipital joint

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  • Synovial joint between occipital condyle above and facet on superior surface of lateral mass of atlas
  • Anterior atlanto-occipital membrane: continuation of anterior longitudinal ligament. Connects anterior arch of atlas to anterior margin of foramen magnum
  • Posterior atlanto-occipital membrane: similar to ligamentum flavum, connects posterior arch of atlas to posterior margin of foramen magnum
  • Flexion, extension and lateral flexion possible. No rotation