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Cervical Spine

The cervical spine is the uppermost part of the spinal column. The cervical area extends out from the base of the skull and consists of 7 vertebrae named C1 through C7. The cervical region is commonly called the neck area.

cervical spine

The main jobs of the cervical area of the spine are to support the weight of the head and to provide flexible movement for the neck. The normal cervical region has a lordotic curve, shaped like a backward letter “C”.

Cervical Anatomy

The uppermost vertebra in the spine (C1) is called the Atlas. The second vertebra (C2) is named the Axis. These 2 bones are specifically designed to allow rotation and movement of the head. They each have a unique shape when compared to other vertebrae.

Nerves that travel out from the cervical region control the function and sensory abilities of the head, face, neck, shoulders, arms and hands. Cervical spinal cord injury can cause complete paralysis, quadriplegic condition or even death.

The spinal structures in the cervical region are smaller and thinner than in other areas of the spine. The intervertebral discs and vertebrae are more susceptible to traumatic injury due to their size and light profile. However, the neck is still a durable structure designed to last a lifetime under normal use. Cervical Spine to Back Pain Home 5/12/06 Revised 11/4/09