Cervical Spine

• The cervical spine consists of 7 vertebrae and 8 cervical spinal nerve pairs. Spinal nerves C1-C7 exit the spinal canal above the 7 cervical vertebrae, while the 8th cervical spinal nerve pair exits below the 7th vertebra.

• The cervical vertebral region displays lordosis (concave posteriorly / curves inward).

• C1, known as the Atlas, is the first cervical vertebra and is distinct from the others. It lacks a vertebral body and consists of anterior and posterior arches. Its main function is to articulate with the occiput (superior) and the axis (inferior), forming the atlanto-occipital and atlanto-axial joints.

• C2, known as the Axis, is the second cervical vertebra and also has unique features, including the odontoid process (dens) that extends into the Atlas's vertebral foramen. The Axis supports C1 and allows lateral rotation at the atlanto-axial joint.

• C3-C7 share a similar appearance and lack the special characteristics of C1-C2. 

• Unlike thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, cervical vertebrae contain transverse foramen, through which vertebral nerves, arteries, and veins pass before entering the skull via the foramen magnum.

• Cervical vertebrae have larger vertebral foramina than thoracic and lumbar vertebrae because the spinal cord is thickest in the cervical region, known as the "cervical enlargement."

• The spinous processes of cervical vertebrae are bifid, resulting in 2 small separate projections/tubercles at the tip.

• C7, known as the Vertebra Prominens, has the largest spinous process of all vertebrae and is, therefore, easier to palpate on physical exam.