The Definition of C and the Cervical Spine

The letter C followed by a number, C#, is a way to refer to one or more of the seven vertebrae of the cervical spine, or neck, and the corresponding cervical nerve roots. The neck is prone to conditions like herniated discs and bulging discs because this portion of the spine supports your head and facilitates every movement between your neck and head. It is comprised of seven vertebrae, C1 – C7.

Characteristics of the Cervical Spine

The first cervical vertebra (C1) is called the atlas, which connects the spine and skull. The second (C2) is called the axis, which allows the atlas to pivot. The remaining five cervical vertebrae (C3-C7) are the smallest vertebrae of the spinal column and are stacked and separated by intervertebral discs. As part of the natural aging process, these discs begin to degenerate over time. They lose height, water content, and elasticity. They can herniate or bulge, extrude into the spinal canal, and press on nearby spinal nerves.

Since the nerves that branch off the spinal cord through passageways in the spinal canal supply sensation to skin and muscles throughout the body, a compressed or damaged cervical nerve could cause the following symptoms:

• Pain that remains localized and causes a throbbing or cramping sensation in the neck
• Shooting pain that travels from the neck and through the shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers
• Tingling or numbness can occur if prolonged compression causes nerve damage

If left untreated, a compressed spinal nerve in the neck could cause paralysis or muscle atrophy.

Treatment Options

If you’re suffering from a herniated disc or a bulging disc in the cervical spine at any C# level, talk to your doctor about conservative treatment options. These might include hot and cold compresses, pain medication, intermittent rest, or gentle stretching. If weeks or months of these methods prove ineffective, consider contacting Laser Spine Institute. We offer a variety of minimally invasive procedures that have helped tens of thousands of people rediscover their lives without back and neck pain. Request your complimentary MRI or CT scan review today to find out if you could be a candidate for one of our state-of-the-art endoscopic procedures.