![]() The height of the disc creates spaces – nerve passageways called foramen or neuroforamen. In the middle of each disc is a nucleus pulposus, a gel-like structure surrounded by a tough, protective tyre-like outer layer called the annulus fibrosus.Īt vertebral levels of the spine, each disc functions to hold the upper and lower vertebrae together, absorb shock, and allow some movement. The discs are strong, flexible tissues of fibrocartilage. ![]() These bony elements naturally create a hollow opening in the centre of the cervical spinal column – a canal that houses and protects the spinal cord.Īnother similarity is the cervical intervertebral discs – between each level starting below C2 (axis). At the back of the vertebral body are bony arches that project outward to form the facet joints and spinous processes. If you compare the thoracic (mid back) and lumbar (low back) to the cervical, you will see that the C3-C7 bones are smaller. Remember, while C1 and C2 allow tremendous ranges of neck movement, they are supporting your head too.Ĭ3-C7 Vertebrae, Cervical Discs, Supporting Structures Roughly 50% of flexion and extension of the neck, similar to nodding your head, occurs here and 50% of rotation also occurs here. This is the most mobile section of your entire spine. Working together, the atlas and axis are primarily responsible for spinal rotation, flexion (bend forward) and extension (bend backward). The atlas (C1) and the axis (C2) are part of the spine’s craniovertebral junction (CVJ) – this is where the base of your brain becomes part of the spinal column. The upper cervical spine is unlike any other part of the vertebral column. Upper Cervical Spine Enables Wide Ranges of Neck Movement Your neck is like no other part of the vertebral spinal column and enables your head and neck a wide range of motion. ![]() The cervical column is comprised of 7 bones (C1 to C7), uniquely shaped to protect the spinal cord that descends from the base of your skull and the spinal nerves or root that exit the spine between each set of bones. The neck is unique in that it supports the weight of your head (4.5-5kg) and allows a variety of head/neck movement, such as turning your head from side to side, nodding, and looking up and down. The cervical spine, or your neck, is a complex structure making up the first region of the spinal column, starting immediately below the skull and ending at the first thoracic vertebra.
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