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From there, the nerves branch out to different areas of the body to pick up sensations (e.g., hot, cold, pain) and carry the signals to the brain. Spinal nerve roots branch off the spinal cord, in pairs, and leave the spinal column through the foramen.
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The height of the disc creates spaces between vertebra-nerve passageways called foramen or neuroforamen, formed on either side. While movement at a single disc level is minimal, all of the vertebrae and discs together allow for a significant range of motion in the spine. They also act as shock absorbers to the demands placed on the spine. Nucleus pulposus: inner gel-like structure surrounded by the annulus fibrosis.Įach disc functions to hold the upper and lower vertebrae together.Annulus fibrosus: the outer portion of the disc, this protective tire-like layer is strong, yet flexible.The discs are strong flexible tissues of fibrocartilage made up of two components: They are found between each level starting below C2 (axis). The cervical spine has 6 intervertebral discs (IVD). If you place your hand at the back of your neck, you can feel this bone protruding through the skin. These bony elements naturally create a hollow opening in the center of the cervical spinal column-a canal that houses and protects the spinal cord.Ĭ7 has a longer spinous process than other vertebrae. If you compare the thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (low back) vertebrae to the cervical, you’ll see the C3-C7 bones are smaller.Īt the back of the vertebral body are bony arches that project outward to form the facet joints and spinous processes. C3-C7 VertebraeĬervical vertebrae C3-C7 are similar in shape and function and are known as “typical” vertebra. While the C1 and C2 allow for tremendous ranges of neck movements, they also help support your head, too. Working together, these vertebrae are responsible for approximately 50% of flexion (bending forward) and 50% of rotation the nodding, bending, and rotation movements of the head. The atlas and axis make up the most mobile section of your entire spine. The atlas and axis are part of the spine’s craniovertebral junction (CVJ)-this is where the base of your brain becomes part of your spinal column. The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) are referred to as “atypical vertebrae” because they have features that set them apart from the rest of the cervical spine. The upper cervical spine is unlike any other part of the vertebral column.