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Craniocervical Instability (CCI) & Atlantoaxial Instability (AAI)

Structural instability at the skull-spine junction causing neurological and autonomic symptoms

Craniocervical instability (CCI) and atlantoaxial instability (AAI) are conditions involving excessive movement at the junction between the skull and the cervical spine. They frequently co-occur with EDS, POTS, and Chiari malformation, and can cause or worsen dysautonomia by compressing or irritating the brainstem and upper cervical spinal cord.

Types & Subtypes

CCI

Instability between the skull and C1 vertebra

AAI

Instability between C1 and C2 vertebrae

EDS-related CCI/AAI

Caused by hypermobile connective tissue

Common Symptoms

Neck painHeadache at base of skullDizzinessPOTS-like symptomsCognitive difficultiesVisual disturbancesSwallowing difficultiesFacial numbnessFatigueWeakness

Management & Treatment Options

Cervical collar support
Physical therapy
Prolotherapy
Platelet-rich plasma injections
Craniocervical fusion surgery
C1-C2 fusion surgery
Avoiding aggravating positions

⚠️ Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Trusted Resources

🔗 The Ehlers-Danlos Society🔗 CCI & Chiari Alliance

Knowledge Base

6 documents

Sourced from authoritative medical organizations and peer-reviewed research.

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