C2 (cervical vertebra)
C2 (cervical vertebra): C2 is the symbol for the second cervical vertebra, which is also called the axis. It is so-named because the uppermost cervical vertebra (called the atlas) rotates about the odontoid process of the second cervical vertebra. The joint between the axis and atlas is a pivot type of joint. It allows the head turn.
The Latin word “axis” means axle or pole. The axis bone serves as the axle about which the atlas (and the head) turn.
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- C3 (cervical vertebra)
C3 (cervical vertebra): The third cervical (neck) vertebra from the top.
- C4 (cervical vertebra)
C4 (cervical vertebra): The fourth cervical (neck) vertebra from the top.
- C6 (cervical vertebra)
C6 (cervical vertebra): The sixth cervical (neck) vertebra from the top. The next-to-last of the seven cervical vertebrae.
- C5 (cervical vertebra)
C5 (cervical vertebra): The fifth cervical (neck) vertebra from the top.
- C7 (cervical vertebra)
C7 (cervical vertebra): C7 is the symbol for the 7th cervical (neck) vertebral bone (C7) which is sometimes called the prominent vertebra due to the length of its spinous process (the projection off the back of the vertebral body). The spinous process of the top thoracic vertebra (T1) just below C7 is sometimes even more […]