Chapter 2 - Anatomy and physiology of cervical spine and cervical spinal cord

Abstract

The cervical spine is made up of the craniocervical junction (occiput to C2 (atlas)) and the subaxial spine (C3 to C7) are the two main segments of the cervical spine. The cervical spine as a whole is in charge of bearing the weight of the head and permitting movement of the neck and head. The cervical spine has a substantial level of anatomical variance despite exhibiting the majority of common vertebral characteristics. The cervical spine's primary function is to support and facilitate the movement of the head and neck. Given the minimal weight-bearing force at this level, large vertebral bodies are not required. Hence, a greater range of motion is more important than vertebral size and rigidity. More motion and flexibility, nevertheless, may come with a higher risk of harm to the spinal cord and its related neurovascular systems. In the current chapter, the authors discuss the structural and functional anatomy of the cervical spine.