Cervical Vertebrae Anatomy and Function Quiz

The smallest and most mobile vertebrae in the spine. They have unique features like transverse foramina for the vertebral artery and uncinate joints.

Openings within the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae that allow passage of the vertebral artery, a major blood vessel supplying the brain.

The first cervical vertebrae, also known as the atlas. It lacks a body and supports the skull.

The second cervical vertebra, also known as the axis. It contains the dens, a bony projection that allows rotation of the head.

Refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, potentially causing compression of the spinal cord.

The seventh cervical vertebrae, it is the largest cervical vertebra. It is easily palpable due to its prominent spinous process.

The largest cervical vertebra, with features resembling thoracic vertebrae. It may have a large spinous process and an extra cervical rib that can compress the brachial plexus.

A group of nerves located in the neck that innervates the upper limb, originating from the spinal cord.

The outer layer of the intervertebral disc, composed of concentrically arranged collagen fibers, providing strength and flexibility to the disc.

The layers of the annulus fibrosus are oriented at 65 degrees to the vertical in the lumbar region, allowing for optimal force distribution during compression and shear.

The inner layers of the annulus fibrosus contain less type I collagen and more water, gradually transitioning into the characteristics of the nucleus pulposus.

The only innervated part of the intervertebral disc, located in the outermost layers of the annulus fibrosus. It provides sensory feedback regarding disc health and potential injury.

During rotation, only the layers of the annulus fibrosus aligned with the direction of rotation become taut, while the others slacken. This uneven tension can lead to disc injuries with repetitive forceful rotations.

The natural curvature of the spine, with a slight extension or backward bend, allowing for optimal posture and supporting the body's weight.

The movement of the head and neck forward, flexing the lower spine and extending the upper cervical spine.

The movement of the head and neck backward, extending the lower spine and flexing the upper cervical spine.

A joint between the superior and inferior articular processes of adjacent vertebrae, formed by synovial, plane (flat) joints. They are responsible for limiting motion and providing stability.

Also known as the Luschka joint, these joints are found between the superior and inferior uncinate processes of the vertebral bodies from C2-3 to C6-7. They help maintain the central position of the disc.

A specialized structure within intervertebral discs that acts as a shock absorber. Composed primarily of water (70-90%), proteoglycans, and collagen fibers, it provides a gel-like consistency.

Structures within the apophyseal joints that act as deformable spacers, dissipating compression forces. They cover the articular cartilage, protecting it during extreme motion.

A specialized fluid found in the nucleus pulposus, composed of proteoglycans that bind water and create a gel-like consistency. These proteoglycans are key to the disc's shock absorbency and flexibility.

A term used to describe the phenomenon of naturally occurring coupling between axial rotation and lateral flexion of the spine. It's facilitated by the uncovertebral joints.

Spaces within the apophyseal joints that help to cushion the joints. They are filled with fat pads and may extend outside the joint capsule.

The ability of the nucleus pulposus to provide shock absorption. It's a consequence of its high water content and unique structure.

The atlanto-axial joint, formed by the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, is responsible for 50-60% of the head's rotational movement.

Both vertebral arteries are stretched when the head is fully rotated, ensuring blood flow to the brain.

In the mid and lower cervical spine, bending to the right is associated with rotation to the right (ipsilateral coupling). This is compensated by left rotation (contralateral coupling) at the atlanto-axial joint, allowing the eyes to stay focused on a stationary object during side bending.

The upper and lower trapezius muscles rotate the cervical and upper thoracic spine to the left when the right upper limb is moved. This is known as contralateral coupling.

The trapezius and rhomboid muscles help stabilize the scapula against the pull of the deltoid muscle. As the trapezius pulls the spinous process to the right, the anterior side of the vertebra rotates to the left.

The sternocleidomastoid muscle originates from the sternum and clavicle, and inserts on the mastoid process and superior nuchae line. It allows for side bending and rotation of the head, as well as flexion of the cervical spine.

The sternocleidomastoid muscle, when working bilaterally, can contribute to forward head posture by flexing the mid-to-lower cervical spine.

The scalene muscles originate from the transverse processes of lower cervical vertebrae and insert on the first two ribs. They assist in breathing and can contribute to cervical side bending and rotation. They also play a role in raising the ribs during inspiration.