Cervical vertebrae

Cervical vertebrae are the seven small bones in the neck region of the spine, labeled C1 through C7. They support the head, allow for a range of movements like turning and tilting, and protect the spinal cord that runs through a central opening in each vertebra. The top vertebra, C1 (atlas), connects to the skull and enables nodding, while C2 (axis) allows for rotation of the head. These bones are crucial for neck stability, movement, and safeguarding neural signals between the brain and body.