The atlantoaxial joint sits at the very top of the neck, right under the skull. When the first two vertebrae slip out of line, the body sends loud, clear warnings. Neck pain is the first and most constant clue. It feels deep, like a rod poking upward from the base of the head, and gets worse with the slightest nod or turn. Headache follows the same track, wrapping around the back of the head and behind the eyes. Coughing or sneezing can shoot sharp pain up the scalp. Neck motion stiffens. You may find yourself turning your whole body instead... Learn more