Uncovertebral joint

Organization and role

Also called joints of Luschka, these articulations guide some cervical movements. They lie near the intervertebral foramina through which nerve roots pass.

Clinical relevance and investigation

Uncovertebral osteophytes may contribute to foraminal stenosis. Imaging establishes a plausible symptomatic role only when level and side agree with clinical findings.

Points to consider

Stability depends on bones, capsules, ligaments, discs and muscles working together. Naming a joint or ligament does not establish injury. After trauma, their integrity must be considered before therapeutic mobilization.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, assessment aims to understand symptoms, history and functional limitations. Manual care and osteopathy, motorized spinal decompression, laser and shockwave have different indications. The term described in this entry is not enough to select any of these modalities. Their relevance, limitations and possible contraindications should be discussed in relation to diagnosis and individual goals.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Atlantoaxial joint — Joint complex between the atlas and axis, including a central joint around the dens and two lateral joints.
• Costovertebral joint — Joint between a rib head and the corresponding thoracic vertebral body or bodies, contributing to rib-cage movement.
• Atlanto-occipital joint — Joint between the occipital condyles and the upper atlas surfaces, allowing movements including nodding of the head.

Medical references

1. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — The Vertebral Column.
2. Radiological Society of North America. RadLex Radiology Lexicon — terminology resource.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.