Knowra Cervical vertebra Cervical vertebra A cervical vertebra is one of the seven vertebrae in the neck, between the skull and the thoracic spine. Its structure supports head movement while protecting the spinal cord.
Atlas (anatomy) : The first cervical vertebra, which supports the skull and allows it to nod. Its ring-shaped structure differs sharply from typical cervical vertebrae.
Atlanto-occipital joint : The joint between the occipital bone and the atlas, permitting nodding movements. It connects the skull to the uppermost cervical vertebra.
Cervical radiculopathy : Pain, weakness, or sensory change caused by irritation or compression of a cervical spinal nerve root. Degenerative changes around cervical vertebrae can narrow nerve exit openings.
Thoracic vertebra : A vertebra of the upper and middle back, characterized by articulations with ribs. Unlike cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae connect directly with the rib cage.
Axis (anatomy) : The second cervical vertebra, whose dens forms a pivot for head rotation. Its dens creates the joint that turns the head from side to side.
Atlanto-axial joint : The joint complex between the atlas and axis that permits much of the head’s rotation. The axis’s dens acts as its central pivot.
Cervical spondylosis : Age-associated degeneration of cervical discs and joints, sometimes causing pain or nerve compression. It alters the vertebrae and adjacent structures over time.
Lumbar vertebra : A large vertebra of the lower back, adapted to bear substantial body weight. Its large body contrasts with the smaller, more mobile cervical vertebrae.
Vertebral foramen : The opening in a vertebra through which the spinal cord passes. The aligned foramina of cervical vertebrae enclose the spinal cord.
Intervertebral disc : A fibrocartilaginous pad between most adjacent vertebral bodies that distributes load and permits movement. Discs cushion and connect the lower cervical vertebrae; none lies between the atlas and axis.
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