As already stated it is necessary to evaluate the upper cervical ligaments and of course continue to evlauate segmentally. Once the ligaments are cleared it is important to evaluate accessory motions in the upper cervical spine, in addition to active motions. I instruct the client in precautions and advise how to gently and safely return to neutral should any motions provoke adverse signs and symptoms. Motions can then be gently stacked to work on specific active or pasive motions. Example: actively side bend fully to the left, then perform gentle active oscillations at end range to enhance left side bending, or add the opposite, which will be isolated in the upper cervical, especially the O-A. To that you can add glides, rotations, flexion, extension, etc. You can treat unilaterally or bilaterally. The list is long, the potential vast. You must have a working knowledgeof the biomechanics, indications and contra-indications, perform proper screen, etc. I have used these on myself and have found them to be very effective at isolating subtle motion restrictions. I hope this has planted some seeds.
Best Regards
jerry Hesch, MHS