Question:

Which joint is involved in movement of the head from left to right (turning side to side)?

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The pivot around the dens of the axis lets you shake your head to say NO.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
  • Atlanto-axial
  • Atlanto-occipital
  • C2-C3 joint
  • C3-C4 joint
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: The atlanto-axial joint lies between the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), pivoting around the dens of the axis. It is a pivot type of synovial joint.
Step 2: This pivot allows the atlas, and the skull resting on it, to rotate around the dens, producing turning of the head from side to side - the gesture for indicating disapproval or saying NO.
Step 3: The atlanto-occipital joint instead permits flexion and extension, that is nodding of the head as when indicating approval or YES, so it does not produce side-to-side rotation. The lower cervical joints contribute little to this specific rotation.
Step 4: The joint responsible for side-to-side head turning is the atlanto-axial joint.
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