Skip to content
Testmottagningen logo
en
sv
Testmottagningen logo

Cervical spine

The neck, also called the cervical spine, is the top part of the spine and is crucial for head mobility and protection of the spinal cord.

Contents

Quick version

What is the cervical spine?

The cervical spine consists of the seven uppermost vertebrae in the spine, designated C1–C7. The cervical spine connects the skull to the thoracic spine and enables movements such as flexion, rotation, and extension of the neck. The cervical spine surrounds and protects the upper part of the spinal cord.

Anatomy and structure

The seven cervical vertebrae, C1-C7, are smaller than the lower vertebrae but are very mobile. The two uppermost, atlas (C1) and axis (C2), allow for a great deal of freedom of movement in the head. Between the vertebrae are discs that act as shock absorbers.

Function and mobility

The cervical spine provides support for the head and enables movements such as twisting, bending, and bending backward. It also plays an important role in balance and eye coordination through interaction with the central nervous system.

Nervous system and blood vessels

The spinal cord passes through the cervical spine, which transmits signals via nerve roots to the arms, hands and parts of the face. Blood vessels also run through the vertebrae to supply the brain with blood.

Common conditions and diseases

Pain in the cervical spine is common and can be caused by muscle tension, herniated discs, osteoarthritis or whiplash. Incorrect posture and prolonged sitting are common triggering factors.

Examination and diagnosis

Diagnosis of cervical spine problems includes clinical examination, neurological tests and sometimes X-ray, CT or MRI of the cervical spine. It is important to assess both mobility and nerve involvement.

Relevant symptoms

  • Pain in the neck and shoulders
  • Stiffness and reduced mobility
  • Headache from the neck area
  • Numbness in the arms or fingers
  • Dizziness or balance problems

Related conditions and diagnoses

  • Herniated disc in the cervical spine
  • Cervical spondylosis (neck osteoarthritis)
  • Whiplash injury
  • Neck lock
  • Cervicogenic headache

Questions and answers

The cervical spine is the upper part of the spine and consists of seven vertebrae, C1–C7. The cervical spine connects the head to the body and enables movement while also protecting the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Neck pain is commonly caused by muscle tension, herniated discs, osteoarthritis, and whiplash. Poor posture, stress, and sedentary work can also lead to neck problems.

A cervical disc herniation means that a disc between the vertebrae in the neck bulges out and presses on a nerve. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, and arms.

The treatment offered depends on the cause but may include painkillers, physiotherapy, exercise, posture correction and sometimes surgery. Early diagnosis improves the prognosis.

Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs with sudden movement, often in traffic accidents. It can cause long-term symptoms such as pain, stiffness, headaches and difficulty concentrating.

Yes, with specific exercises you can strengthen muscles and improve mobility. Physiotherapy is often part of the treatment for chronic or recurring neck pain.

In case of severe or persistent pain, numbness in the arms or hands, headaches from the neck or signs of nerve damage, you should contact healthcare for further investigation.

Cervical spondylosis is a common cause of chronic neck pain, which is due to age-related changes in the cervical spine that can lead to stiffness, pain and sometimes nerve damage.

Poor posture, such as leaning your neck forward when using a screen, can put strain on the cervical spine and lead to pain and stiffness. Ergonomics and break exercises are important preventive measures.