This pannus is called a “Pseudopannus” as it looks like a pannus but does not have the origin that these pannuses typically have (rheumatoid arthritis). A pannus is a mass of synovial and inflammatory tissue around a joint. If the C1-2 level is stable, then there is no cause for alarm. Stability means the dens is intact (not fractured or eroded) and the transverse ligament is intact-the atlantodens interval (the space between the dens of C2 and the front of the ring of C1) is less than 1-2 mm.
This pseudopannus will not cause arm symptoms. The origin could be gout or pseudo-gout (calcium pyrophosphate disease). You might get some tightness of rotation of your head. There is an unlikely possibility of headaches but this would be distinctly unusual.
You probably have some other disorders of your neck that are contributing to your symptoms.
Dr. Corenman
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.