Your cervical spine supports the weight of your head and allows a wide range of head movement. Its circular surround of bone also protects your spinal cord. Many diseases and disorders can affect your cervical spine.

The neck, also called the cervical spine, is a well-engineered structure of bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The cervical spine is delicate—housing the spinal cord that sends messages from the brain to control all aspects of the body—while also remarkably strong and flexible, allowing the neck to move in all directions.

The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae and acts as bony protection for the spinal cord. This is important because injuries to the spinal cord can be devastating and result in disability...

Jan 28, 2025 · The cervical spine is located in the neck region, connecting the base of the skull to the thoracic spine. It extends from the occipital bone of the skull to the upper part of the back. Structure and Anatomy Vertebral Composition. The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae, labeled C1 to C7.

Sep 5, 2024 · The cervical spine is the most superior portion of the vertebral column, lying between the cranium and the thoracic vertebrae. It consists of seven distinct vertebrae, two of which are given unique names: The first cervical vertebrae (C1) is known as the atlas. The second cervical vertebrae (C2) is known as the axis.

Nov 14, 2023 · This article covers the anatomy of the cervical spine/vertebrae, such as nerves, ligaments, muscles, and injuries. Click now to learn more at Kenhub!

Aug 28, 2023 · Seven cervical vertebrae, combined with cartilages, various ligaments, and muscles, make a sophisticated and flexible structure that allows a variety of head/neck movements. Similar to other areas of the spine, cervical vertebrae also have intervening intervertebral disks for shock absorption and flexibility.

Feb 27, 2025 · Learn how the spinal discs function and how various conditions can cause neck pain and/or radiating pain.

May 24, 2022 · The cervical spine is the first part of the spinal column, consisting of 7 cervical vertebrae, C1-C7. These vertebrae are ring-like bony structures supporting the weight of the head. The first two bones, C1 and C2, are highly specialized, known as the atlas and axis.

Doctors often refer to these vertebrae as C1 to C7. The cervical spine starts where the top vertebra (C1) connects to the bottom of the skull. The cervical spine curves slightly inward and ends where C7 joins the top of the thoracic spine (the chest area). The base of the skull sits on top of C1, also called the atlas.