The cervical region is the upper part of the spine that begins directly below the skull and ends at the top of the thoracic spine. Seven vertebrae and the discs that separate them make up the cervical region, and are named after the Latin word cervix or cervix. These vertebrae, designated C1 through C7, are C-shaped backwards, forming a lordotic curve. The lumbar section of the spine forms a similar curve, while the thoracic and sacral regions of the spine form kyphotic curves. It is this configuration of opposing curves that helps distribute the mechanical stress that continually bombards the spine.
In general, the cervical region includes bones, ligaments, muscles, and joints, all of which have nerve endings. The vertebrae in the cervical region differ from those in the rest of the spine in that each has openings to carry blood to the brain. Also, the first two vertebrae in the cervical region are shaped differently from the other vertebrae. The C1 vertebra supports the weight of the head and allows flexion and extension. This first vertebra is called the atlas vertebra, named for the Titan in Greek mythology who raised the skies from his perch in the Atlas Mountains.
Located directly below the atlas vertebra is the axis vertebra. A piece of the shaft, called the odontoid, extends into the atlas, allowing the atlas to rotate around it. This configuration is what allows the head to turn from side to side. While the vertebrae in the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine are separated by intervertebral discs, spongy pads that allow movement and serve as shock absorbers, these two vertebrae are connected by ligaments that allow rotation.
Almost half of the adult population presents changes in the cervical region at the age of 50. Wear and tear manifests as collapsed or herniated discs, also called slipped or ruptured discs. In general, this causes pain and stiffness that is most often found in the lower back, but can also be localized in the cervical region. Arthritis, injury, or trauma can be the cause of these symptoms, but neck pain can also be the precursor to severe spinal degeneration, misalignment, infection, or tumor. Generally, a doctor should be consulted whenever there is sustained discomfort in the cervical region or other areas of the spine.