Cervical spine
Also called: C-spine, neck vertebrae
What it means
The cervical spine is the neck region of the spine, made of seven small vertebrae (C1-C7) that support the head and allow it to turn and nod.
Healthy cervical vertebrae support head movement and stability, so keeping this part of the spine strong matters for posture and everyday function as you age.
The cervical spine is made up of seven small vertebrae stacked from the base of the skull down to the top of the thoracic spine. They're labeled C1 through C7, with C1 and C2 having special jobs in letting you nod and rotate your head. These are the smallest vertebrae in the spine, built for mobility more than heavy load-bearing.
Because the neck moves so much and carries less compressive weight than the lower back, cervical fractures from osteoporosis alone are less common than in the lumbar spine or hip. Neck vertebrae are more often affected by trauma, disc degeneration, or arthritis, though bone density still matters for overall spine strength.
Keeping the whole spine, including the cervical region, healthy involves good posture, neck and upper back strengthening, and avoiding activities that put sudden strain on the neck. If you have osteoporosis or arthritis affecting your spine, your doctor can help guide safe movement and any treatment decisions.
Your seven neck vertebrae support head movement, so keeping the cervical spine strong matters for posture as you age.
Where this leads
WordCurious what each vertebra is actually made of? Learn the basic building block that forms your whole spine, neck included.
Related words
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Education only, not medical advice. Decisions about tests, medications and treatment belong with your own doctor. OsteoStrong does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease.
