The best tests for these ligaments are a complete history with the appropriate symptoms, X-rays with flexion/extension, an MRI focusing on the upper cervical spine (some MRIs do not include this area) and possibly flexion/extension limited CT scans. I will tell you it is exceedingly rare to find injury to these ligaments unless significant trauma occurs (ejected out of a car when not wearing seatbelt, motorcycle vs. car impact, fall from substantial height) or you have a metabolic disorder.
There is a spurious test called the DMX or fluoroscopic video imaging of the neck with motion. I have never found this test to be valid or reliable and I know of no surgeon who uses this test but there are a few non-surgeons who use it.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
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.
