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• Cervical Vertebra

The Cervical Vertebra

The cervical vertebrae comprise the section of the spine that supports the skull at the top of the spinal column. Each cervical vertebra is distinct in shape and function from the rest of the spine, and they even vary from one other to a degree. The cervical vertebrae are the smallest of the vertebrae in the spine, and the intervertebral foramina are larger in order to accommodate the vertebral arteries. The shape of each individual cervical vertebra and the way they fit and work together is what provides the neck’s distinctive mobility.

How Cervical Vertebrae are Different

The seven cervical vertebrae collectively are called the cervical spine, as distinguished from the sections beneath it (the thoracic spine, the lumbar spine, and the sacrum). Within each spinal section, the vertebrae are designated by an alphanumeric code that indicates in which section a particular vertebra lies and where in the sequence it falls. For instance, the cervical vertebra at the top of the spine is called “C1” to demonstrate that it is the first (1) vertebra in the cervical (C) spine.

Problems and Treatment

As is the case throughout the spine, intervertebral discs lie between the cervical vertebrae, providing shock absorption and preventing one cervical vertebra from grinding against another. Because of the greater range of motion needed by the cervical spine, however, these discs are particularly susceptible to degeneration due to injury or ordinary wear and tear. Thus, conditions such as herniated discs, bulging discs, or degenerative disc disease can develop, causing pain, reduced mobility, and numbness or weakness in the extremities.

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Laser Spine Institute (LSI) is the worldwide leader in laser-assisted procedures that can treat such ailments. Our renowned surgeons are experts in diagnosing and treating these conditions with minimally invasive outpatient procedures that are designed to restore your full mobility and eliminate the pain caused by wear or injury to the discs between the cervical vertebrae. For more information, or to schedule a free review of your last CT scan or MRI, contact LSI today.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.