## Overview The cervicothoracic junction is the transition between the last cervical vertebra (C7) and the first thoracic vertebra (T1). Instability here is uncommon but can result from trauma, congenital malformation, or severe degenerative change. It may produce neck pain, forelimb gait abnormalities, or neurologic deficits. ## Causes Trauma, developmental abnormalities, or advanced osteoarthritis with ligamentous failure. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs plus imaging that demonstrates abnormal motion or malalignment at C7-T1. Advanced imaging is often required. ## Treatment Strict rest, anti-inflammatories, and, in selected cases, surgical stabilization. Evidence specific to this junction is limited. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded. Location near the thoracic inlet and brachial plexus outflow complicates both diagnosis and treatment. ## Prevention No specific measures beyond trauma avoidance.
lower neck pain; forelimb weakness or lameness; ataxia; abnormal posture at the base of the neck
## Overview The cervicothoracic junction is the transition between the last cervical vertebra (C7) and the first thoracic vertebra (T1). Instability here is uncommon but can result from trauma, congenital malformation, or severe degenerative change. It may produce neck pain, forelimb gait abnormalities, or neurologic deficits. ## Causes Trauma, developmental abnormalities, or advanced osteoarthritis with ligamentous failure. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs plus imaging that demonstrates abnormal motion or malalignment at C7-T1. Advanced imaging is often required. ## Treatment Strict rest, anti-inflammatories, and, in selected cases, surgical stabilization. Evidence specific to this junction is limited. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded. Location near the thoracic inlet and brachial plexus outflow complicates both diagnosis and treatment. ## Prevention No specific measures beyond trauma avoidance.
lower neck pain; forelimb weakness or lameness; ataxia; abnormal posture at the base of the neck