Cervical vertebra
Cervical Vertebra
The Cervical Vertebra (pronounced: /ˈsɜːrvɪkəl ˈvɜːrtɪbrə/) is a part of the vertebral column or backbone in the human body. The cervical vertebrae are the smallest vertebrae in the vertebral column and are located in the neck region.
Etymology
The term "cervical" is derived from the Latin word "cervix" which means neck. "Vertebra" is derived from the Latin word "vertere" which means to turn.
Anatomy
The cervical vertebrae consist of seven bony rings that reside in the neck between the base of the skull and the thoracic vertebrae in the trunk. Among the vertebrae, they are distinguished by the presence of a hole in each transverse process, through which the vertebral artery, vertebral veins and vertebral nerves pass.
The first two cervical vertebrae are unique. They are named the Atlas and Axis respectively and differ greatly in shape and structure from the other vertebrae. They are responsible for the nodding and rotation movements of the head.
Related Terms
- Vertebral column: The series of vertebrae extending from the base of the skull to the coccyx (tailbone) that forms the supporting axis of the body in vertebrate animals. It houses and protects the spinal cord in its spinal canal.
- Atlas: The topmost vertebra of the backbone, articulating with the occipital bone of the skull.
- Axis: The second cervical vertebra, below the atlas at the top of the backbone.
- Vertebral nerves: The nerves that emerge from the vertebral column.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cervical vertebra
- Wikipedia's article - Cervical vertebra
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