Upper cervical vertebra. Detailed anatomy of the human cervical vertebrae

Instructions

The first vertebra is C1, (atlas). Named after the Titan Atlas, who holds the sky. It’s like he’s holding it on himself. In fact, the atlas is only a connecting link with the rest of the spine. It has no body, but is actually a ring consisting of two arches: anterior and posterior, connected by lateral masses and two lateral formations. It is attached to the foramen magnum with the help of condyles, and from below its articular surface is almost flat. On the posterior arch it has a small depression into which the tooth of the second vertebra fits. It has a very large vertebral foramen, so that in case of sudden movements and slight displacement that may follow, there is no damage to the spinal cord.

The second vertebra is C2, called epistrophy (axis). It is unique in that during the formation of the skeleton in the embryonic period, the body of the first vertebra grows to it, forming the so-called tooth. At the top of the tooth there are anterior and posterior articular surfaces, the anterior one is connected to the fossa on the atlas, and the posterior one is connected to its transverse ligament. The atlas with the occipital bone moves around it, as if around its own axis, which is why it is also called the axial vertebra. The spinous process is very strong and large, much more massive than that of the other cervical vertebrae.

The third, fourth, fifth and sixth vertebrae - C3, C4, C5, C6 - do not have their own names (vertebra cervicalis). In fact, they are no different from each other, so they are simply called by their serial number, for example, the fourth vertebra or the sixth vertebra. Since there is no great pressure on the cervical vertebrae, they are small and have low bodies, which explains the high probability of injury to this part of the spine. Each of them has an almost triangular vertebral foramen, and the transverse processes have an opening through which the vertebral artery passes. The ends of the transverse processes have two tubercles: anterior and posterior. The anterior tubercle of the sixth vertebra is slightly better developed, so in case of severe bleeding, the common carotid artery can be pressed against it. The spinous processes of these four vertebrae are relatively short.

The seventh vertebra, C7, does not have its own name, but due to slight differences in structure it is called the protruding vertebra (vertebra prominens). Since it has a very long spinous process, which is easily palpable through the skin, it is used to count vertebrae during patient examinations. Otherwise, its structure is virtually identical to the four previous vertebrae.

Collapse

The cervical (cervical) spine is the most mobile upper part of the spinal ridge, consisting of 7 vertebral segments. The vertebrae of the cervical spine, unlike segments of other sections, have different shapes and small sizes. There are openings in the vertebrae of the neck that allow the passage of capillaries that supply blood to the cerebellum. Therefore, if for some reason compression of these arteries occurs, severe complications develop.

Anatomy of the cervical spine

How many vertebrae are there in the human cervical spine? The cervical spine contains 7 movable vertebrae, between which there are intervertebral discs that provide good shock absorption and high mobility of this section.

The cervical vertebrae form a physiological lordosis - a natural curvature of the ridge, shaped like the letter C, convex to the front. Thanks to this appearance, the vertebrae of the cervical area are designated C1-C7, where C1 is the top, most important, and C7 is the outermost, seventh vertebra of this section of the spinal column.

The structure of the human cervical spine, the designation scheme has common anatomical features with other sections. Any vertebra, regardless of where it is located, has a general structure, representing a body with an arch and 7 spinous processes, palpable during palpation of the neck.

With the help of these processes, the necessary structures are attached to the vertebrae to ensure their functioning. Between the vertebral segments there are small cartilaginous formations - intervertebral discs. Inside each vertebra there is a foramen, through which the spinal canal passes, connecting the entire spinal column. You can see what the cervical spine looks like in this photo.

Despite the common anatomical features, the cervical vertebrae have some differences in structure. In the transverse vertebrae, of which there are 2 per vertebra, there are special openings that allow capillaries to pass through, providing nutrition to the main organ of the central nervous system. The foraminal foramen in the cervical segments is larger than that of other vertebrae, and their dimensions are smaller.

The muscular system of the cervical spine includes 3 types of muscles: deep, median and superficial. The cervical connective membranes consist of 3 layers, separated by fatty tissue. The peculiarity of such fascia is the presence of a multiple number of nerve nodes and muscle fibers. Also in the cervical spine there is a complex circulatory system.

Description of each vertebra

The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae that have important functional roles. The entire cervical region of the spine can be divided into 2 parts:

• upper – consists of 1 and 2 segments;
• lower - includes segments 3 to 7, located on the border with the 1st thoracic vertebra.

You can see what the cervical spine looks like with all its segments in this picture.

To better understand the anatomy of the cervical spine, it is necessary to study the structural features of all vertebrae separately.

First

This is the most important vertebral segment, which is commonly called the Atlas. It articulates with the cranium, making a smooth transition from the spinal cord to the brain. C1 has a distinctive structure; it does not have a body or processes. Instead, the first vertebra of the human cervical spine is equipped with one arch in front and one in back, between which are located the lateral masses.

The arch located behind carries the vertebral artery. Atlas is equipped with a large number of capillaries and nerve nodes, has a non-standard shape and increased hardness, which ensures head movements and blood supply to the brain. There are no discs on both sides of the vertebra, which is why the spinal segment can fuse with the skull.

Second

This is the second important vertebral segment of the cervical spine, called the Axis. The peculiarity of its structure is the presence of a tooth, with the help of which C2 connects to the Atlas and ensures its rotation together with the cranium. Another structural feature of this segment is its bifurcation and the presence of joints on the sides, acting as intervertebral attachments.

Third – fifth

The structure of the C3-C5 vertebrae is the same, the same as that of the segments of other parts of the spinal ridge.

They provide a kind of support, ensuring neck mobility and the integrity of the spinal cord, and serve as conductors for the vertebral artery that supplies the brain. These vertebral segments, with the help of the muscular-ligamentous apparatus, provide the ability to move the head back and forth, on the sides, in a circle.

Sixth

The cervical segment of C6 is commonly called the carotid tubercle. This is because it is more convex than other vertebrae and is located next to the carotid artery. When bleeding develops, the artery is pressed against the carotid tubercle. C6 is the most developed and mobile vertebra, around which salts are usually deposited.

Seventh

The lowest vertebral segment of the cervical spine also has some differences in structure. Its main feature is the presence of not 2, but 4 nerve roots. Also, this segment has the largest and does not contain through holes that allow the spinous processes to pass through. With the help of a small fossa, C7 articulates with the first thoracic vertebra.

Functions of the cervical spine

As you know, the number of vertebrae in the cervical spine is 7. Each of these elements has its own important functional purpose:

• C1 – ensures the normal functioning of the pituitary gland. Damage to the segment provokes migraines, dizziness and fainting.
• C2 – controls human auditory and visual functions. Damage to a vertebra threatens the appearance of spots and blurred vision, a jump in blood pressure, and pain in the ears or eyes.
• C3 – is responsible for the facial function of the facial nerve. The disorder is manifested by tinnitus and dental problems.
• C4 – connected to the area of ​​the spinal cord responsible for the condition of the head organs. Pinched nerves lead to hearing loss, cracking lips, and facial neuralgia.
• C5 – responsible for the functioning of the vocal cords and shoulder muscles. With the development of pathologies, a sore throat, loss of voice, and hoarseness are observed.
• C6 - performs the same functions as C5.
• C7 – is responsible for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Damage to the segment is manifested by endocrine pathologies and disturbances in the psycho-emotional state.

The cervical spine is not only responsible for the mobility of the head and connects the brain to the spinal cord, but also ensures blood flow to the brain.

Diseases

Due to high mobility, the vertebrae of the cervical spine are susceptible to injury and various pathological processes. The injuries are usually caused by a direct blow or whiplash injury (excessive neck extension during diving, car accident).

In the picture: the first cervical vertebrae of the atlas (Atlas, C1) and axis (Axis, C2), dorsal view.

The cervical spine is the basis for the performance of the entire musculoskeletal system. The craniovertebral articulation of the spine (the region of the upper cervical region), which includes such cervical vertebrae as the atlas (atlant, atlas, first or upper vertebra) and axis (axis, epistrophy, second cervical vertebra), as well as the occipital base of the skull, ensures mobility of neck rotation and heads in all directions. The blood vessels supplying the brain, including the vertebral artery, as well as the medulla oblongata, which is involved in the reflex regulation of the main autonomic functions of the body, are concentrated in this section.

In addition to the first two, there are 5 more vertebrae in the cervical spine, which are movably connected to each other. The vertebral artery and the most important blood vessels pass through the first openings in the vertebrae.

The first cervical vertebra (C1), which holds the skull, bears the main load, in addition, the head is constantly in motion, and this further increases the stress. To ensure normal functioning, the vertebra has a rather complex structure.

C1 is located directly between the skull and the axis.

The atlas is the most important place in the spine

What is Atlas? The Latin name for C1 is atlas (“atlas”) - this is the name of the first cervical vertebra in humans. It received its name from the name of the Greek titan Atlas (Atlas), who holds the firmament with his hands. This required colossal forces. So Atlas, like a mythical giant, holds a heavy skull on his “shoulders”. This is its main function.

In the picture: the first cervical vertebra of the atlas (top view, from the back).

Where is atlas located? Below the very base of the skull: it is attached to the occipital bone. You can feel it with your fingers. In medicine, the name C1 vertebra is used, but it is called the atlas much more often. When the atlas is positioned correctly, this is a guarantee of normal head mobility and stable functioning of the body.

In the picture: the first cervical vertebra (ventral view, from the chest).

Immediately below the atlas is the second cervical vertebra - the axis (from the Latin axis - “axis”). Another name is vertebra C2. Together, the first two cervical vertebrae C1 and C2 form a joint - the atlantoaxial joint. The figure clearly shows the difference between the second and the first vertebra, and the anatomy of the structure of the upper cervical spine is clear.

In the picture: the second cervical vertebra axis (top view, from the back).

When connecting the atlas and axis, two types of joints are involved:

1. Lateral paired atlantoaxial joints, which are responsible for axial rotation of the head relative to the spine. The lateral atlantoaxial joints are lateral paired joints that are formed by the articular lower lateral surfaces of the atlas and the upper lateral surfaces of the epistropheus (axis, second cervical vertebra).
2. The median atlantoaxial joint, thanks to which C1 can move freely relative to the second vertebra, and the head is provided with free rotation. The median atlantoaxial (axial is a misnomer) joint is formed primarily by a depression (arch) on the lower anterior surface of C1. The odontoid process, located on the anterior arch of the axis, enters this arch, a depression, from the inside. It earned the name “dentate” due to its characteristic shape: in the figure above you can see what kind of axis it looks like. The ring-shaped upper vertebra is also easy to recognize by the characteristic structure of the anterior arch: it has a depression for the protruding process of the axis.

It is between the arches of the atlantoaxial joint and the lateral parts, in the foramen, that the spinal artery passes, the spinal ganglia are the nodes of the spinal nerves. Near the cervical vertebrae there are numerous tendons and ligaments and cartilage tissue.

These movable joints serve to provide high-amplitude circular, inclined and rotational movements of the head. When turning the head, the atlas seems to slide along with the skull along the smooth articular surfaces around the C2 axis.

The position of the atlas is also affected by the functioning of the atlanto-occipital joint, which connects the condyles (processes of the outer plate) of the occipital bone and the articular facets (sockets) of the atlas. The joint provides lateral flexion and head nodding. The processes and depressions on the first vertebra repeat the corresponding curves on the surface of the arches of the second. When displaced, the protrusions of one vertebra do not fit exactly into the depressions of another, and the mobility of the head and neck is limited.

The strength of the connection of the human cervical vertebrae is ensured by groups of ligaments, which, together with the axis and atlas, form the osteoligamentous joint. The ligaments prevent the atlas from moving forward, withstanding a load of 130–160 kg. This protective property of the joint, however, does not allow the atlas to be completely invulnerable (if a person suffers an injury).

Displacement of the first cervical vertebra: types of injuries and symptoms of subluxation

Due to various reasons, the atlas can be displaced relative to the axial section, which significantly reduces the functions of the craniovertebral (upper cervical) zone, pinches arteries and nerve endings, and this, in turn, leads to many different diseases and disorders. What are these violations?

When the atlas is subluxated, the most important regulatory parts of the central nervous system are affected. If the medulla oblongata is damaged, for example, respiratory movements and heart function stop: in fact, this part of the brain contains the most important nerve centers. Almost everyone who is diagnosed with “subluxation of the atlas” experiences headaches, and many have a curvature of the spine. Pain may also appear, seemingly unrelated to the atlas: in the legs, arms, gastrointestinal tract, osteochondrosis, movement pathologies, and dizziness may develop. Sometimes the pain in the head due to a pinched artery is so severe that no medications help. After the subluxation is eliminated, it goes away.

The term "rotation" means "rotation". Based on this logic, it’s easy to guess what a subluxation is called: rotational. Displacement of the atlas can be caused by a congenital pathology called Kimmerly's anomaly. But much more often, rotational subluxation of the atlas occurs as a result of birth trauma, falls, road accidents and sports injuries.

This means that C1 is displaced relative to the C2 axis during injury. In addition to dislocation, injuries and injuries can cause damage to the vertebra. At the birth of a child, due to the actions of obstetricians during the obstetrics process, the atlas is displaced in almost all babies. It is definitely worth checking whether you have a displacement specifically: correcting the atlas will prevent many complications of diseases and possible problems. This is a major preventive measure and can save you from many unnecessary medical procedures. By all indications, it turns out that the atlas is the most important vertebra.

Subluxation of C1 most often occurs in childhood. With dislocation, the abnormalities in the functioning of the joints of the craniovertebral zone are more noticeable, but complete dislocation occurs less frequently than subluxation (partial displacement of the atlas relative to the C2 axis). Muscles with “memory” strengthen the displaced vertebra in a new inorganic position, and it remains in this state until it is reduced. No matter what treatment is used, it is only possible to set the vertebra in place permanently using the AtlasPROfilax method.

Diagnosis of atlas displacement

Before adjusting the cervical vertebra of the atlas, it is necessary to carry out a special diagnosis, consisting of a series of kinesiological (muscle) tests. They are called so because the word kinesiology is derived from the Greek word kinesis - movement, and also from the Latin word logos, which means "science".

The peculiarity of the tests is that they evaluate muscle tone and their interaction with internal organs.

Additional information is provided by studies of the cervical spine using MRI (magnetic resonance therapy), CT (computed tomography), and you can take a picture (X-ray). The same studies make it possible to evaluate the result after the atlas correction procedure using AtlasPROfilax.

What is AtlasPROfilax: features of the method

The AtlasPROfilax method of atlas reduction was developed by the Swiss physician Rene-Claudius Schümperli. He is also the inventor of a special device that is used to influence the muscles that hold C1 in a stable position. Prolonged vibration relaxes the muscle corset that holds the atlas vertebra, then it falls into place, and the muscles that have “memory” secure C1 in the correct position.

At the end of the procedure, which is performed once in a lifetime, rarely twice, the patient is prescribed special preventive measures and taking vitamin complexes. The warm-up developed by the specialists of the Atlas-Standard clinic, which must be done every day for a specified time, supports the musculoskeletal system and accustoms the body to work in a new mode. This is necessary to reduce the amount of unpleasant sensations that inevitably arise with a new way of working of the body.

The difference between AtlasPROfilax and traditional methods of treatment

The AtlasPROfilax method, if carried out by competent certified specialists, allows not only to eliminate all possible consequences of displacement, but also to prevent the development of many pathologies.

The patented technique itself and the principle of its application are not published on the website. You can find out more details from your attending physician at the Atlas-Standard center.

Make an appointment with an atlas specialist

You can submit a request for an appointment using the feedback form. Residents of Moscow and St. Petersburg can arrive for an appointment at the company's branches located in these cities. Residents of other cities in Russia can arrange for a doctor to come to their city or wait for the arrival of specialists who travel to the cities of the country according to the schedule that is set on the website.

Residents of certain cities of the country are provided with discounts and promotions, which can be found out after filling out an application for admission.

The spine is the basis of the human skeleton, its support and has the most important functions. What was studied at school cannot give a complete picture of the importance of the spine and its activity. And if a person does not know, he cannot understand how important it is to maintain the health of the vertebrae and discs. The spine protects the brain from possible damage. Due to its mobility we can move. The spine has only 24 vertebrae and each pair of them is connected by discs. The latter serve as shock absorbers for each section and the entire spinal column. All vertebrae are separated and perform their functions. Each of the departments is important and vital, but the main protective functions lie on the cervical vertebrae.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are the most mobile and fragile, each of them has its own characteristics. But they are all vulnerable and therefore the first injuries are often received at the time of birth of the baby. Not very long ago, this fact was confirmed by scientists: at birth, when the baby is pulled by the head, his cervical vertebrae receive the first injury. It is subsequently impossible to detect such damage; as a result, the spine begins to form with disturbances in its structure and functions.

The cervical spine has 7 vertebrae. Each of them is small and quite fragile, often subject to injury and suffers from osteochondrosis faster than others. Each of the vertebrae has its own purpose and its own shape. The strongest vertebrae in the neck are the first and seventh vertebrae, due to the tasks they perform. The first vertebra serves as the connection between the cervical region and the skull, the seventh connects the neck with the thoracic region.

The first vertebra has a complex structure and special tasks that it performs. Due to it, not just parts of the spine are connected, but the spinal cord with the main one - the brain. Only thanks to the cervical vertebrae is proper blood supply and nutrition to the cerebral cortex ensured. This part of the spine is rich in nerve endings.

The first vertebra is the atlas of the neck, which does not have its own body or its own processes. It is formed by two arches that surround the beginning of the spinal canal. It is unusually hard and of non-standard shape, this is the only way it can provide full movement to the head. It is connected to the second, it is called the axis, using the process of the second vertebra. Due to this pair, the head is comparable to movement on hinges.

This vertebral connection lacks an intermediate and connecting disc. This is practically a cast structure and therefore injury to this part entails irreversible consequences for the entire body.

The seventh and sixth vertebrae end the cervical spine, but the seventh has the main violin. It has a protruding shape, so it is easy to simply feel it at the beginning of the back if you bend your head slightly. This is where the “withers” are most often formed and salts are deposited. The seventh vertebra is the only one of all that has two pairs of nerve endings. But there is another feature that distinguishes it from the rest: the complete or partial absence of through holes. Normally, the spinous processes should pass through such foramina, but this is not the case in the seventh vertebra. Also, its large process has no branching.

At the bottom of the seventh vertebra there is a depression, with its help it connects with the first ribs of the skeleton, from here forming the thoracic frame. The sixth vertebra has another important feature. It is located very close to one of the important arteries: the carotid artery. His mound would practically press against it if the artery were strong. It is this vertebra that can be pressed on if a person is at risk of bleeding. This is a professional method that allows you to reduce bleeding and reduce pressure drop in critical situations.

Other vertebrae

For normal nutrition and blood circulation, it is necessary that all vertebrae work harmoniously. Their mobility is ensured by the combination of their sizes. The remaining vertebrae of the cervical region are modest and small in size, but their bodies are more similar to the shape of triangles. Their openings are much larger than the others, some of their processes emerge at an angle. Just like the others, they have transverse processes.

These short processes contain openings that connect to the main blood vessels. It is in this place that the vertebral artery passes, which is designed to nourish not only the spinal cord, but also the brain.

Such complex connections protect the main brain and enable movement. Even such an opportunity as turning the head and tilting it is created not just for human comfort, but to protect the spinal column. The cervical spine is as fragile as it is sensitive. It’s easy to injure him; you don’t have to make an effort. Often injuries occur in normal everyday conditions.

The cervical vertebrae are often injured when jumping incorrectly into the water. In shallow water or with improper diving technique, people often suffer subluxations or more complex dislocations. Sometimes a person does not feel any disturbance; everything is normal for him. And even pictures can show absolute health. The difficulty is that small cracks in the joint tissue cannot be seen. Also, the consequences may not occur immediately; there is such a thing as delay. This is the same principle as in the case of the severed head of a chicken. When she can run around without her head for a while longer.

Sometimes it may take a significant amount of time before the effects of the damage become apparent. Their severity depends on the complexity of the injury. Some may die immediately or within a short period of time, while others may develop serious health problems. Even dislocations can provoke serious consequences.

It is important to understand that the brain begins to suffer as soon as it stops receiving the necessary nutrition and necessary information. There have been cases when, as a result of a minor injury, which doctors successfully treated a few hours later, a person lost his sight, hearing, or developed other impairments. After an injury of any kind, the hours count until assistance is provided. You can’t hesitate, the cervical vertebrae are the basis for the health of the brain and spinal cord.

The most severe injuries, and not only to the cervical vertebrae, are fractures. Medicine has come a long way, but even now it cannot eliminate the consequences of spinal fractures. Most often, such an injury causes instant death; the chances of survival are almost zero.
The consequences of a ruptured intervertebral hernia and destruction of discs from an impact can be severe. With such injuries, fragments remain in the tissues of the spine, and the normal functioning and nutrition of the brain stops. The consequences are often irreversible, even if the team manages to arrive on time.

Lighter damage:

• ligament damage;
• dislocations and subluxations;
• bias.

But even in such cases, everything depends on the degree and complexity of which particular vertebra was damaged. Assessing the importance of the cervical vertebrae, we can recognize it as the main one in the spine. If with injuries to other departments a person has a chance of surviving, then in the case of the cervical region these chances are significantly lower. Even the presence of such a “native” disease as osteochondrosis can already make a person helpless and sick.

Signs of problems with the cervical spine

Most often, people who have problems with the cervical vertebrae complain of severe and constant headaches. The range of complaints can be large, but all consist of neurological symptoms:

• dizziness;
• nausea and vomiting due to headache;
• loss of consciousness for no apparent reason;
• decreased vision, hearing;
• the appearance of “floaters” in the eyes;
• increased fatigue, even when resting.

Often this list is supplemented by psychosomatic symptoms. Thus, a person may suddenly stop falling asleep normally, the sleep cycle is disrupted, and the mood changes in a wide range. All signs are individual, because the human brain is not a duplicate program, but a unique creation.

• cervical hump

Cervical vertebrae

Cervical vertebrae, vertebrae cervicales, (Fig. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20) number 7, with the exception of the first two, are characterized by small low bodies, gradually expanding in direction to the last VII vertebra. The upper surface of the body is slightly concave from right to left, and the lower surface is concave from front to back. On the upper surface of the bodies of the III - VI cervical vertebrae, the lateral edges rise noticeably, forming a hook of the body, uncus corporis, (Fig. 14, 15).

The vertebral foramen, foramen vertebrate, is wide, close to triangular in shape.

The articular processes, processus articulares, are relatively short, stand obliquely, their articular surfaces are flat or slightly convex.

The spinous processes, processus spinosi, from the II to VII vertebrae gradually increase in length. Up to the VI vertebra inclusive, they are split at the ends and have a slight downward slope.

The transverse processes, processus transversi, are short and directed to the sides. Along the upper surface of each process there runs a deep groove of the spinal nerve, sulcus nervi spinalis, (Fig. 15) - a trace of the attachment of the cervical nerve. It separates the anterior and posterior tubercles, tuberculum anterius et tuberculum posterius, located at the end of the transverse process.

On the VI cervical vertebra the anterior tubercle is developed. In front and close to it passes the common carotid artery, a.carotis communis, which during bleeding is pressed against this tubercle; hence the tubercle received the name carotid, tuberculum caroticum.

In the cervical vertebrae, the transverse process is formed by two processes. The anterior one is a rudiment of a rib, the posterior one is the actual transverse process. Both processes together limit the opening of the transverse process, foramen processus transversi, through which the vertebral artery, vein and the accompanying sympathetic nerve plexus pass, and therefore this opening is also called the vertebral arterial opening, foramen vertebraarteriale.

C I - atlas, C II - axial vertebra, axis, and C VI - protruding vertebra, vertebra prominens, differ from the general type of cervical vertebrae.

The first (I) cervical vertebra - the atlas, atlas, (Fig. 9, 10, 11) does not have a body and a spinous process, but is a ring formed from two arches - anterior and posterior, arcus anterior et arcus posterior, connected to each other two more developed parts - lateral masses, massae laterales. Each of them has an oval concave upper articular surface, facies articulares superior, on top, a place of articulation with the occipital bone, and on the bottom, an almost flat lower articular surface, facies articularis inferior, articulating with the II cervical vertebra.

The anterior arch, arcus anterior, has on its anterior surface an anterior tubercle, tuberculum anterius, and on the rear - a small articular platform - a tooth fossa, fovea dentis, articulating with the tooth of the II cervical vertebra.

The posterior arch, arcus posterior, has a posterior tubercle, tuberculum posterius, in place of the spinous process. On the upper surface of the posterior arch there is a groove of the vertebral artery, sulcus arteriae vertebralis, which sometimes turns into a canal.

The second (II) cervical vertebra, or axial vertebra, axis, (Fig. 11, 12, 13) has a tooth, dens, directed upward from the vertebral body, which ends in an apex, apex. Around this tooth, as if around an axis, the atlas rotates along with the skull.

On the front surface of the tooth there is an anterior articular surface, facies articularis anterior, with which the atlas fossa articulates, on the posterior surface there is a posterior articular surface, facies articularis posterior, to which the transverse ligament of the atlas, lig, is adjacent. transversum atlantis. The transverse processes lack the anterior and posterior tubercles and the groove of the spinal nerve.

The seventh cervical vertebra, or protruding vertebra, vertebra prominens, (C VII) (Fig. 18) is distinguished by a long and unbifurcated spinous process, which is easily palpable through the skin, and therefore the vertebra is called protruding. In addition, it has long transverse processes: its transverse openings are very small, sometimes they may be absent.

On the lower edge of the lateral surface of the body there is often a facet, or costal fossa, fovea costalis, a trace of articulation with the head of the first rib.

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Anatomy of the cervical vertebra. How many vertebrae are in the cervical spine

The human spinal column is the highest engineering invention of evolution. With the development of upright posture, it was he who took on the entire load of the changed center of gravity. Surprisingly, our cervical vertebrae - the most mobile part of the spine - can withstand loads 20 times greater than a reinforced concrete pillar. What are the features of the anatomy of the cervical vertebrae that allow them to perform their functions?

Main part of the skeleton

All the bones in our body make up the skeleton. And its main element, without a doubt, is the spinal column, which in humans consists of 34 vertebrae, combined into five sections:

• cervical (7);
• chest (12);
• lumbar (5);
• sacral (5 fused to form the sacrum);
• coccygeal (4-5 fused into the coccyx).

Features of the structure of the human neck

The cervical spine has a high degree of mobility. Its role is difficult to overestimate: these are both spatial and anatomical functions. The number and structure of the cervical vertebrae determines the functions of our neck.

It is this section that is most often injured, which is easily explained by the presence of weak muscles, high loads and the relatively small size of the vertebrae related to the structure of the neck.

Special and different

There are seven vertebrae in the cervical region. Unlike others, these have a special structure. In addition, there is a specific designation for the cervical vertebrae. In international nomenclature, cervical (cervical) vertebrae are designated by the Latin letter C (vertebra cervicalis) with a serial number from 1 to 7. Thus, C1-C7 is the designation of the cervical region, showing how many vertebrae are in the cervical region of the human spinal column. Some cervical vertebrae are unique. The first cervical vertebra C1 (atlas) and the second C2 (axis) have their own names.

A little theory

Anatomically, all vertebrae have a common structure. Each has a body with an arch and spinous processes that are directed downward and backward. When palpated, we feel these spinous processes as tubercles on the back. Ligaments and muscles are attached to the transverse processes. And between the body and the arch passes the spinal canal. Between the vertebrae there is a cartilage formation - intervertebral discs. There are seven processes on the vertebral arch - one spinous, two transverse and 4 articular (upper and lower).

It is thanks to the ligaments attached to them that our spine does not fall apart. And these ligaments run throughout the spinal column. The nerve roots of the spinal cord exit through special openings in the side of the vertebrae.

General features

All cervical vertebrae have common structural features that distinguish them from vertebrae in other sections. Firstly, they have smaller body sizes (the exception is the atlas, which does not have a vertebral body). Secondly, the vertebrae have the shape of an oval, elongated across. Thirdly, only in the structure of the cervical vertebrae there is an opening in the transverse processes. Fourthly, their transverse triangular hole is large.

Atlas is the most important and special

Atlantoaxial occipital - this is the name of the joint with the help of which, in the literal sense, our head is attached to the body through the first cervical vertebra. And the main role in this connection belongs to the C1 vertebra - the atlas. It has a completely unique structure - it has no body. During embryonic development, the anatomy of the cervical vertebra changes - the body of the atlas grows to C2 and forms a tooth. In C1, only the anterior arcuate part remains, and the vertebral foramen, filled with a tooth, increases in size.

The arches of the atlas (arcus anterior and arcus posterior) are connected by lateral masses (massae laterales) and have tubercles on the surface. The upper concave parts of the arches (fovea articularis superior) are articulated with the condyles of the occipital bone, and the lower flattened parts (fovea articularis inferior) are articulated with the articular surface of the second cervical vertebra. The groove of the vertebral artery runs above and behind the surface of the arch.

The second one is also the main one

Axis, or epistopheus, is a cervical vertebra, the anatomy of which is also unique. A process (tooth) with an apex and a pair of articular surfaces extends upward from its body. It is around this tooth that the skull rotates along with the atlas. The anterior surface (facies articularis anterior) enters into articulation with the dental fossa of the atlas, and the posterior surface (acies articularis posterior) is connected to its transverse ligament. The lateral upper articular surfaces of the axis are connected to the lower surfaces of the atlas, and the lower ones connect the axis with the third vertebra. There is no spinal nerve groove or tubercles on the transverse processes of the cervical vertebra.

"Two Brothers"

Atlas and axis are the basis for the normal functioning of the body. If their joints are damaged, the consequences can be disastrous. Even a slight displacement of the odontoid process of the axis in relation to the arches of the atlas leads to compression of the spinal cord. In addition, it is these vertebrae that make up the perfect rotation mechanism, which provides us with the ability to move our heads around a vertical axis and bend forward and backward.

What happens if the atlas and axis are displaced?

• If the position of the skull in relation to the atlas is disturbed and a muscle block has arisen in the cranial-atlas-axis zone, then all cervical vertebrae take part in turning the head. This is not their physiological function and leads to injury and premature wear. In addition, our body, without our consciousness, registers a slight tilt of the head to the side and begins to compensate for it by curvature of the neck, then the thoracic and lumbar regions. As a result, the head stands straight, but the entire spine is curved. And this is scoliosis.
• Due to the displacement, the load is distributed unevenly across the vertebra and intervertebral disc. The more loaded part collapses and wears out. This is osteochondrosis - the most common disorder of the musculoskeletal system in the 20th-21st centuries.

• Curvature of the spine is followed by curvature of the pelvis and incorrect position of the sacrum. The pelvis twists, the shoulder girdle becomes distorted, and the legs seem to be of different lengths. Pay attention to yourself and those around you - most people are comfortable wearing a bag on one shoulder, but it slides off the other. This is the skew of the shoulder girdle.
• A displaced atlas relative to the axis causes instability of other cervical vertebrae. And this leads to constant uneven compression of the vertebral artery and veins. As a result, there is an outflow of blood from the head. An increase in intracranial pressure is not the worst consequence of such a displacement.
• The area of ​​the brain responsible for muscle and vascular tone, respiratory rhythm and protective reflexes passes through the atlas. It’s easy to imagine the dangers of squeezing these nerve fibers.

Vertebrae C2-C6

The median vertebrae of the cervical spine have a typical shape. They have a body and spinous processes that are enlarged, split at the ends and slightly inclined downward. Only the 6th cervical vertebra is slightly different - it has a large anterior tubercle. The carotid artery runs right along the tubercle, which we press when we want to feel the pulse. Therefore, C6 is sometimes called “sleepy.”

Last vertebra

The anatomy of the C7 cervical vertebra is different from the previous ones. The protruding (vertebra prominens) vertebra has a cervical body and the longest spinous process, which is not divided into two parts.

This is what we feel when we tilt our heads forward. In addition, it has long transverse processes with small openings. On the lower surface a facet is visible - the costal fossa (ovea costalis), left as a trace from the head of the first rib.

What are they responsible for?

Each vertebra of the cervical spine performs its own function, and in case of dysfunction, the manifestations will be different, namely:

• C1 – headaches and migraines, weakened memory and insufficiency of cerebral blood flow, dizziness, arterial hypertension (atrial fibrillation).
• C2 – inflammation and congestion in the paranasal sinuses, eye pain, hearing loss and ear pain.
• C3 – neuralgia of the facial nerves, whistling in the ears, acne on the face, toothaches and caries, bleeding gums.
• C4 – chronic rhinitis, cracked lips, cramps of the oral muscles.
• C5 – sore throat, chronic pharyngitis, hoarseness.
• C6 – chronic tonsillitis, muscle tension in the occipital region, enlarged thyroid gland, pain in the shoulders and upper arms.
• C7 – thyroid diseases, colds, depression and fear, shoulder pain.

Cervical vertebrae of a newborn

A newly born child, although an exact copy of an adult organism, is more fragile. The bones of babies contain a lot of water, little minerals and have a fibrous structure. Our body is structured in such a way that almost no ossification of the skeleton occurs during intrauterine development. And due to the need to pass through the birth canal in a baby, ossification of the skull and cervical vertebrae begins after birth.

The baby's spine is straight. And the ligaments and muscles are poorly developed. This is why it is necessary to support the newborn’s head, since the muscular frame is not yet ready to support the head. And at this moment, the cervical vertebrae, which have not yet ossified, can be damaged.

Physiological curves of the spine

Cervical lordosis is a curvature of the spine in the cervical region, a slight bend forward. In addition to the cervical one, there is also lordosis in the lumbar region. These forward bends are compensated by a backward bend - thoracic kyphosis. As a result of this structure of the spine, it acquires elasticity and the ability to withstand everyday stress. This is a gift from evolution to man - only we have bends, and their formation is associated with the emergence of upright walking in the process of evolution. However, they are not innate. The spine of a newborn does not have kyphosis and lordosis, and their correct formation depends on lifestyle and care.

Normal or pathological?

As already noted, throughout a person’s life, the cervical curvature of the spine can change. That is why in medicine they talk about physiological (the norm is an angle of up to 40 degrees) and pathological lordosis of the cervical spine. Pathology is observed in the case of unnatural curvature. It is easy to identify such people in a crowd by their head sharply pushed forward and its low position.

There are primary (develops as a result of tumors, inflammation, incorrect posture) and secondary (caused by congenital injuries) pathological lordosis. The average person cannot always determine the presence and degree of pathology during the development of neck lordosis. You should consult a doctor if alarming symptoms appear, regardless of the reason for their occurrence.

Pathology of the neck bend: symptoms

The earlier pathologies of the cervical spine are diagnosed, the greater the chance of correcting them. You should be concerned if you notice the following symptoms:

• Various postural disorders that are already noticeable visually.
• Recurrent headaches, tinnitus, dizziness.
• Pain in the neck area.
• Loss of ability to work and sleep disturbances.
• Decreased appetite or nausea.
• Blood pressure surges.

Against the background of these symptoms, a decrease in immunity, deterioration in functional movements of the hands, hearing, vision and other associated symptoms may appear.

Forward, backward and straight

There are three types of pathology of the cervical spine:

• Hyperlordosis. In this case, there is excessive forward bending.
• Hypolordosis, or straightening of the cervical spine. In this case, the angle has a small degree of extension.
• Kyphosis of the cervical spine. In this case, the spine bends backward, which leads to the formation of a hump.

The diagnosis is made by a doctor based on accurate and inaccurate diagnostic methods. X-ray examination is considered accurate, but patient interview and training tests are not accurate.

The reasons are well known

The generally accepted reasons for the development of cervical spine pathology are as follows:

• Disharmony in the development of the muscular frame.
• Spinal column injuries.
• Overweight.
• Growth spurt during adolescence.

In addition, the cause of the development of pathology can be inflammatory diseases of the joints, tumors (benign or not) and much more. Lordosis mainly develops with poor posture and the adoption of pathological postures. In children, this is an incorrect body position at a desk or a discrepancy between the size of the desk and the child’s age and height; in adults, this is a pathological body position when performing professional duties.

Treatment and prevention

The complex of treatment procedures includes massages, acupuncture, gymnastics, swimming pool, and physiotherapeutic appointments. The same procedures are used to prevent lordosis. It is very important for parents to monitor the posture of their children. After all, taking care of the cervical spine will prevent pinching of arteries and nerve fibers in the narrowest and most important part of the human skeleton.

Knowledge about the anatomy of the cervical (cervical) spine provides an understanding of its vulnerability and importance for the entire body. By protecting the spine from traumatic factors, observing safety rules at work, at home, in sports and on vacation, we improve the quality of life. But it is precisely quality and emotions that a person’s life is full of, and it doesn’t matter at all how old he is. Take care of yourself and be healthy!

Cervical spine

The basis of the structure of the human body is the spine. This is the most important part of the human musculoskeletal system. The spinal column consists of five sections with different numbers, structures and functions of vertebrae.

Cervical spine

Sections of the spinal column

• cervical - contains seven vertebrae, holds and moves the head;
• thoracic - it is formed by 12 vertebrae, forming the posterior wall of the chest;
• lumbar - massive, consists of 5 large vertebrae, which have to support the body weight;
• sacral - has at least 5 vertebrae that form the sacrum;
• coccygeal - has 4-5 vertebrae.

Due to inactive work activity, the cervical and lumbar spine regions are most often exposed to diseases.

The spinal column is the main protection of the spinal cord; it also helps maintain balance when a person moves, and is responsible for the functioning of the muscular system and organs. The total number of vertebrae is 24, if you do not take into account the sacral and coccygeal (these sections have fused bones).

Vertebrae are the bones that form the spinal column, which take on the main supporting load, consist of arches and a body that has a cylindrical shape. The spinous process extends posteriorly from the base of the arch, the transverse processes extend in different directions, and the articular processes extend above and below the arch.

Inside all vertebrae there is a triangular opening that penetrates the entire spinal column and contains the human spinal cord.

Sections of the spinal column

The cervical region, consisting of 7 vertebrae connected by intervertebral discs, is located at the very top and is particularly mobile. Its mobility helps to make turns and tilts of the neck, which is ensured by the special structure of the vertebrae, the absence of other bones attached to it, and also due to the lightness of the constituent structures. The human cervical region is most susceptible to stress due to the fact that it is not supported by a muscular corset, and there are practically no other tissues here. It is shaped like the letter “C”, with the convex side facing forward. This bend is called lordosis.

Structure of the cervical spine

The human cervical spine is formed from two parts:

• upper - consists of the first two vertebrae associated with the occipital part of the head;
• lower - starts from the third vertebra and borders on the first thoracic vertebra.

The two upper vertebrae have a special shape and perform a specific function. The skull is attached to the first vertebra - the Atlas, which plays the role of a rod. Thanks to its special shape, the head can tilt forward and backward. The second cervical vertebra, the axis, is located under the atlas and allows the head to turn to the sides. Each of the other 5 vertebrae has a body that performs a supporting function. The cervical vertebrae contain small processes of joints with a convex surface inside of which there are certain openings. The vertebrae are surrounded by muscles, ligaments, blood vessels, nerves and separated from each other by intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers of the spine.

Due to the peculiarities of the anatomy, the human cervical spine can provide supporting function to the body, as well as impart significant flexibility to the neck.

First and axial vertebra

First and axial vertebra

Atlas, as you know, is a titan from Greek mythology, who holds the firmament on his shoulders. The ring-shaped first cervical vertebra, which attaches the spinal column to the back of the head, was named after him.

The cervical vertebra of the atlas has a special structure, unlike the others; it lacks a vertebral body, spinous process and intervertebral disc, and consists only of an anterior and posterior arch, which are connected laterally to each other by bone thickenings. On the back side of the arch there is a special hole for the next vertebra; a tooth enters this recess.

The second vertebra, also known as the axial vertebra, is called Axis or Epistropheus. It is distinguished by an odontoid process, which is attached to the atlas and helps to make various movements of the head. In front, the tooth consists of an articular surface that connects to the first vertebra. The upper articular surfaces of Axis are located on the sides of the body, and the lower ones connect it to the next vertebra.

Seventh cervical vertebra

The last of the cervical vertebrae also has an atypical structure. It is also called protruding, since a person’s hand can easily, after checking the spinal column, feel it through the skin. What distinguishes it from others is the presence of one large spinous process, which is not divided into two parts and does not contain transverse processes. The vertebral body also has a hole that allows the cervical and thoracic spine to be connected.

Nervous and circulatory system in the cervical region

The cervical vertebrae have a special structural anatomy. There are a large number of blood vessels and nerves located here, which are responsible for various parts of the brain, certain parts of the face, muscles of the arms and shoulders of a person. The cervical plexus of nerves is located in front of the vertebrae. The first spinal nerve is located between the occipital part of the head and the atlas, next to the vertebral artery. Its injury can lead to convulsive twitching of the head.

The nerves of the cervical spine are divided into two groups:

• muscular – provide movement of the cervical spine, sublingual muscles, participates in the innervation of the sternocleidomastoid muscle;
• cutaneous - connects with nerves most of the auricle, the surface of the neck, and some parts of the shoulders.

Pinched nerves can especially often occur. Why is this happening? The cause may be osteochondrosis. It occurs when intervertebral discs wear down and extend beyond the spine, pinching nerves. Blood vessels are very close to the tissues of the head and neck. Due to this location, when damaged, neurological and vascular disorders are possible.

When any vertebrae are injured, it is not so much the spinal column that suffers as the cervical spine. This can cause compression of the vertebral artery, as a result of which blood circulation in the brain deteriorates and nutrients are not supplied in full. The carotid artery also passes here, which supplies the facial part of the head, neck muscles and the thyroid gland.

Displacement of the cervical vertebrae

The structure of the cervical region is one of the most vulnerable. Head injuries can be caused by blows or sudden movements, or from other factors that are not immediately noticeable. Very often, vertebrae are displaced during childbirth in children, since there is a very large load on the spinal column compared to the size of the baby. Previously, during labor, to slow down the process, the midwife would press the baby's head in the opposite direction, which would cause the vertebrae to become displaced. Even the slightest damage to the atlas can cause a number of complications in the future.

Displacement of the cervical vertebrae

Interestingly, in ancient Rome, a specially trained person approached the newborn children of slaves one by one and twisted their heads in a special way, displacing the cervical vertebrae, so that the child grew up depressed, with reduced mental activity. This was done to avoid uprisings.

Depending on the nature of the pain, you can determine how many vertebrae are damaged and in what location. All cervical vertebrae in medicine are designated by the letter C and a serial number, starting from the top.

Damage to certain vertebrae and associated complications:

1. C1 – is responsible for the brain and its blood supply, as well as the pituitary gland and inner ear. If damaged, headaches, neurosis, insomnia, and dizziness appear.
2. C2 – responsible for the eyes, optic nerves, tongue, forehead. The main symptoms are neurasthenia, sweating, hypochondria, migraines.
3. C3 - responsible for the cheeks, outer ear, facial bones, teeth. If there is a violation, problems with smell and vision, deafness, and neurological disorders are detected.
4. C4 – responsible for the nose, lips, mouth. Signs of the disorder are neurasthenia, paralysis in the head, adenoids, diseases associated with the nose and ears.
5. C5 – responsible for the vocal cords and pharynx. Manifested by diseases of the oral cavity, eyes, sore throat, hoarseness.
6. C6 – associated with the muscles of the neck, shoulders and tonsils. Signs: asthma, shortness of breath, laryngitis, chronic cough.
7. C7 – responsible for the thyroid gland, shoulders, elbows. Complications can manifest themselves as pain in the shoulder area, arthrosis, bronchitis, and problems with the thyroid gland.

Examples of a normal and arthrosis-damaged disc

The spinal column and its anatomy make it possible to identify particularly vulnerable areas in the cervical region and prevent the occurrence of damage. Injuries to the vertebrae in humans have a very detrimental effect on the functioning of the brain and spinal cord, which is why it is necessary to monitor the spine with special attention. It is possible to make an accurate diagnosis using an x-ray and carefully studying the photo. The doctor determines how long the course of treatment will last and what procedures will be included. Treatment of the vertebrae can cause some euphoria, lightness and clarity of consciousness.

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Comments (1)

March 4, 2017 at 3:34 am | #

I heard. Elbon helps a lot. but they don’t sell it here, I haven’t tested it myself. But everything else helps little, my neck constantly hurts.

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September 19, 2017 | #

Complications in the postoperative period or during surgery do not occur often. If a doctor recommends replacing a damaged knee joint, you should not be afraid or think about the possible consequences and failures that occur in rare cases. Such operations are usually performed by experienced specialists who try to eliminate all negative aspects. The recovery period after surgical manipulation of the knee joint, and how it will proceed, depends on the joint actions of doctors and the patient.

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September 14, 2017 | #

Treatment of gout is mandatory, although it is almost impossible to completely cure this disease without correcting metabolic processes in the body. Medicines alone will not cope with this task, so the patient is prescribed a diet. Since some menu options have already been outlined, we can consider some of the healthiest dish recipes. The source of ingredients is the table and list of permitted foods.

Tatiana

Hello! I did a closed MRI of the neck, they found three hernias, can this be treated? I have poor hearing, tinnitus, and high blood pressure. , music in my head 24 hours a day, every day, for like two months now. How should I be treated? What can help me in this case? They say operations are not performed to remove hernias. From UV.Tatyana

What is the name of the first cervical vertebra in humans?

The first cervical vertebra, the atlas, does not have a vertebral body, but consists of an anterior and posterior arch. The arches are connected to each other by lateral bone thickenings (lateral masses).

The second cervical vertebra, the axis, has a bony outgrowth in the front part, which is called the odontoid process. The odontoid process is fixed with the help of ligaments in the vertebral foramen of the atlas, representing the axis of rotation of the first cervical vertebra. This anatomical structure allows us to perform high-amplitude rotational movements of the atlas and head relative to the axis.

Cervical vertebrae

The cervical vertebrae, vertebrae cervicales, number 7, with the exception of the first two, are characterized by small low bodies, gradually expanding towards the last, VII, vertebra. The upper surface of the body is slightly concave from right to left, and the lower surface is concave from front to back. On the upper surface of the bodies of the III-VI cervical vertebrae, the lateral edges rise noticeably, forming the hook of the body, uncus corporis.

The vertebral foramen, foramen vertebrate, is wide, close to triangular in shape.

Articular processes, processus articulares. relatively short, stand obliquely, their articular surfaces are flat or slightly convex.

The transverse processes, processus transversi, are short and directed to the sides. Along the upper surface of each process runs a deep groove of the spinal nerve, sulcus nervi spinalis, a trace of the attachment of the cervical nerve. It separates the anterior and posterior tubercles, tuberculum anterius et tuberculum posterius, located at the end of the transverse process. On the 6th cervical vertebra the anterior tubercle is developed. In front and close to it passes the common carotid artery, a. carotis communis, which is pressed against this tubercle during bleeding; hence the tubercle received the name carotid, tuberculum caroticum. In the cervical vertebrae, the transverse process is formed by two processes. The anterior one is a rudiment of a rib, the posterior one is the actual transverse process. Both processes together limit the opening of the transverse process, foramen processus transversi, through which the vertebral artery, vein and the accompanying sympathetic nerve plexus pass, and therefore this opening is also called the vertebral arterial opening.

The atlas, atlas, axial vertebra, axis, and the 7th protruding vertebra, vertebra prominens, differ from the general type of cervical vertebrae. The first cervical vertebra, the atlas, does not have a body and a spinous process, but is a ring formed from two arches - anterior and posterior, arcus anterior et arcus posterior, connected by two more developed parts - lateral masses, massae laterales. Each of them has an oval concave upper articular surface, facies articulares superior, on top, a place of articulation with the occipital bone, and on the bottom, an almost flat lower articular surface, facies articularis inferior, articulating with the 2nd cervical vertebra. The anterior arch, arcus anterior, has on its front surface an anterior tubercle, tuberculum anterius, on the back - a small articular platform - a tooth fossa, fovea dentis, articulating with the tooth of the cervical vertebra.

The posterior arch, arcus posterior, has a posterior tubercle, tuberculum posterius, in place of the spinous process. On the upper surface of the posterior arch there is a groove of the vertebral artery, sulcus arteriae vertebralis, which sometimes turns into a canal.

The second (II) cervical vertebra, or axial vertebra, axis, has a tooth directed upward from the vertebral body. dens, which ends in an apex, apex. Around this tooth, as if around an axis, the atlas rotates along with the skull.

On the front surface of the tooth there is an anterior articular surface, facies articularis anterior, with which the atlas fossa articulates, on the posterior surface there is a posterior articular surface, facies articularis posterior, to which the transverse ligament of the atlas, lig, is adjacent. transversum atlantis. The transverse processes lack the anterior and posterior tubercles and the groove of the spinal nerve.

The seventh cervical vertebra, or protruding vertebra, vertebra prominens, is distinguished by a long and unbifurcated spinous process, which is easily palpable through the skin; therefore, the vertebra is called protruding. In addition, it has long transverse processes: its transverse openings are very small, sometimes they may be absent.

On the lower edge of the lateral surface of the body there is often a facet, or costal fossa, fovea costalis, a trace of articulation with the head of the first rib.

Atlas of human anatomy. Akademik.ru. 2011.

See what “Cervical vertebrae” are in other dictionaries:

The cervical vertebrae are not separated in fish, and in amphibians there is only one cervical vertebra, the articulation of which with the skull is similar to the articulation of the vertebrae with each other. It can be taken as a rule that the N. vertebrae of Sauropsida bear ribs. In turtles, this connection with the ribs is so... ... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron

Vertebrae * - represent a series of individual cartilages or bones that make up the dorsal bone axis, which envelops the spinal cord and serves as support for the entire body of most vertebrates. The most fully represented vertebra consists of the following parts... ... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron

Vertebrae - represent a series of individual cartilages or bones that make up the dorsal bone axis, which envelops the spinal cord and serves as support for the entire body of most vertebrates. The most fully represented vertebra consists of the following parts... ... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron

Cervical Vertebrae - seven bones that make up the cervical spine. The first cervical vertebra of the atlas (atlas) has a ring shape. The middle part of the body, having separated from the atlas, grew to the body of the second vertebra, forming its tooth. Remains of the body lateral masses ... ... Medical terms

Cervical vertebrae - (cervical vertebrae) seven bones that make up the cervical spine. The first cervical vertebra of the atlas (atlas) has a ring shape. The middle part of the body, having separated from the atlas, grew to the body of the second vertebra, forming its tooth. Remains of the body... ... Dictionary of medicine

Vertebrae - Image of a thoracic vertebra. The ribs of the chest are attached to this type of vertebrae. Vertebra (lat. vertebra) a constituent element (bone) of the spinal column. The number of vertebrae in the spinal column varies between different groups... ... Wikipedia

cervical vertebrae - (vertebrae cervicales) seven vertebrae that form the cervical spine. They have small oval-shaped bodies, gradually expanding downward; their spinous processes are bifurcated with a slightly pronounced slope. Spinous process... ... Dictionary of terms and concepts on human anatomy

Lumbar vertebrae - (lat. vertebrae lumbales) the five lower vertebrae in humans from the 20th to the 24th, counting from above. The lumbar spine connects below to the sacrum. Contents 1 Features of anatomy 2 Functions ... Wikipedia

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Structure, functions and diseases of 1-7 cervical vertebrae in humans

The first cervical vertebra, or atlas, is the main bony component of the cervical spine, which is displaced in almost 80% of the world's population. The reasons for this are birth injuries, which have not become uncommon in the modern world. However, this situation can be completely corrected. The main thing is not to delay going to the doctor, because a curved first cervical vertebra often leads to pinched nerves and unpleasant pain.

At the initial stage, the problem can be easily solved. You need to listen sensitively to the signals of your own body.

Anatomy of the spine

In order to accurately understand the problems associated with the cervical spine, you should understand what it consists of. The structure of the spine is quite easy to remember, because it has only five sections:

• cervical;
• chest;
• lumbar;
• sacral;
• coccygeal

In turn, the human cervical spine consists of 7 vertebrae and has a slight curve, vaguely reminiscent of the letter C. This shape is completely normal and should not cause any concern to a person. The cervical region is rightfully recognized as the most mobile part of the spine, because it is responsible for the range of movements of the neck. It doesn’t matter here how many vertebrae are included. All that matters is their specific structure.

Atlas is 1 cervical vertebra, which is axial. Unlike other vertebrae, it does not have a body or a spinous process. But the shape of the atlas outwardly resembles a ring consisting of anterior and posterior arches. It has 1 cervical vertebra and a point of contact with the occipital bone.

There is a small tubercle on the front of the vertebra, and a depression at the back where the atlas connects to the vertebral body. In addition, the posterior arch also contains a branch of the artery.

The 2-6 cervical vertebrae is the middle link of the cervical spine, characterized by high mobility. This also includes the 3rd and 4th cervical vertebrae, which do not have a specific function, but are indispensable in ensuring neck mobility. Regardless of how many vertebrae there are in the cervical spine, they will all be equally important for normal human life. Both the second cervical vertebra and, for example, the fifth.

The 7th vertebra is called protruding because of its slightly curved shape. It is this that represents the connecting link between the cervical and thoracic regions, while remaining no less mobile than, for example, the 5th cervical vertebra.

In addition, all vertebrae of the cervical spine are numbered accordingly, from 1 to 7. The zero point in the structure of the section, oddly enough, is the occipital bone.

What diseases can occur?

Both the 1st and 2nd cervical vertebrae, and along with them any other, can be susceptible to many diseases. There are enough reasons for this phenomenon, and it is impossible to predict what exactly will become the catalyst. However, you need to know the problems that a person may have at any time.

Among the most common modern problems of the cervical spine are:

1. Osteochondrosis. Neglect of physical education, a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition simply cannot but affect a person’s health. First of all, the bone tissues will suffer, as they lose their mobility due to lack of movement. The result is limited neck movements and unpleasant, and sometimes even painful, sensations. At first they appear only when turning the head, but later they will bother the person without the slightest reason.
2. Mechanical injuries. Despite the fact that one of the main functions of the vertebrae is to protect the internal organs of a person and ensure his upright posture, they are quite fragile and can easily break. A person must be very careful, because restoring their original appearance and functionality will not be so easy.
3. Infectious diseases. According to statistics, such problems are rare, but they still occur. As a rule, they affect not only the 1st, but also the 2nd and even the 7th cervical vertebra, essentially rendering the neck immobile. The most common causes of this phenomenon are HIV, syphilis, or toxic poisoning caused by taking heavy drugs.
4. Hormonal and age-related changes in the body. Under the influence of many factors, calcium begins to be washed out of bone tissue, which inevitably leads to the development of many diseases that also affect the cervical vertebrae. It is impossible to completely stop this process, but it can be slowed down if you consult a doctor in time.

Today there are a lot of diseases affecting the cervical vertebrae, and almost each of them carries a potential risk to human health. In order to maintain the health of the cervical spine, there is no need to self-medicate! It’s better to go to a specialist once again and show him the problem that has arisen. Such reinsurance has never harmed anyone!

Prevention everyone needs

In order not to become a hostage to the situation, a person must not only know anatomy well, but also constantly monitor his health.

A banal and at the same time effective rule is regular physical education. At the same time, it is not necessary to burden yourself with training in the gym, which brings no benefit, but only a feeling of internal exhaustion.

Training 2-3 times a week is enough. It is not necessary to choose a strength sport. Enough light workouts for the soul, and the body will always be in good shape. It is a slight shake-up and a good mood that are also responsible for a person’s health.

The second equally important aspect of the prevention of diseases affecting the annular first cervical vertebra in humans is proper nutrition.

It may seem that these components have nothing in common, but this is not so. Food enriched with vitamins is easily digestible and makes bones stronger. But from harmful products and fast food one can only expect a destructive effect, which, as a rule, affects absolutely all systems included in the human anatomy.

In addition, one should not forget about a timely visit to the diagnostic center, even if no symptoms are observed. Perhaps there are serious prerequisites for the development of problems with the vertebrae of the neck. In this case, the doctor will be able to prescribe therapy that will support the body and make it less susceptible to negative external factors. This rule should be followed especially clearly by people over 40 years of age. In this case, not only the ring-shaped vertebra may suffer, but also another equally important element - the seventh cervical vertebra.

It is he who provides communication with the thoracic region and is the final link in the chain of the cervical region. Therefore, the 7th cervical vertebra is no less important than all the others. His health also needs to be paid attention to.

There are no unnecessary organs or systems in the human structure; each of them requires attention. You should not deny your body this whim - it will thank its owner for many years of well-coordinated work. And a person will completely forget about how many cervical vertebrae there are in total as unnecessary.

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