Cervical Spine Anatomy and Kinematics

These flashcards cover the anatomy, biomechanics, clinical considerations, and kinematic details of the cervical spine.

What are the two distinct regions of the cervical spine?

Upper Cervical Spine (C0-C1-C2) and Lower Cervical Spine (C2-C3 to C7-T1).

What is the significance of the Occipito-atlantal (OA) motion segment?

It accommodates mostly flexion and extension movements with very little lateral flexion or rotation.

What is the primary motion allowed by the atlanto-axial (AA) joint?

Primarily rotation (40°) with some flexion/extension.

Describe the function of the myodural bridge in the upper cervical region.

It connects muscle groups to the dura mater, potentially relating to suboccipital muscle tension headaches.

What does the Alar ligament limit?

Lateral flexion.

What special feature does C7 have compared to other cervical vertebrae?

It is more like a thoracic vertebra, has a large spinous process (vertebra prominens), and does not have an uncinate process.

What is observed in flexion at the upper cervical spine?

The occiput glides posteriorly, and the atlas rotates and glides posteriorly.

What does typical lower cervical vertebra anatomy consist of?

Each motion segment has five joints: two uncovertebral joints, two facet joints, and one intervertebral disc.

What can degeneration of uncovertebral joints lead to?

Nerve root impingement due to decreased lateral recess space.

What are the degrees of flexion and extension typical for lower cervical motion segments?

About 15º per motion segment, greatest at C4-5 and C5-6.

What is the impact of posture on cervical spine health?

Postural changes can lead to macro traumas, damage discs and soft tissues, and result in muscle splinting.

What happens to the cervical spine in ‘text neck’ syndrome?

Increased weight stress leads to forward head posture, affecting cervical spine alignment and health.

What motions are primarily initiated by the scalenes during cervical lateral flexion?

Ipsilateral lateral flexion.

How does the cervical spine facilitate rotation?

Rotation is initiated by ipsilateral and contralateral muscle groups and involves complex intersegmental dynamics.

What is the typical range of motion for lateral flexion in lower cervical segments?

About 10° lateral flexion per motion segment, greatest at C3-4 to C5-6.

Why is the anatomical structure of the upper cervical spine considered unique?

It has no discs and specific joint formations that allow for specialized movements.

What anatomical feature allows for increased cervical spine mobility?

A large disc-to-body ratio in the cervical region.

What is the role of the transverse ligament in the cervical spine?

It limits flexion and translation at the atlanto-axial joint.

What effect does increased lordosis have on the cervical spine?

It increases the anterior curve, which can exert more load on vertebrae and discs.

What common clinical issue arises from dysfunction in upper cervical segments?

Increased tension in suboccipital muscles leading to headaches.

What anatomical structure connects the occiput to C1 and C2?

Multiple muscle attachments and deep ligaments.

What is the method used to visualize instability of the transverse ligament?

Flexion and extension stress films.

How do the upper and lower cervical segments differ in their coupling of motion?

Upper cervical segments have more coupled rotation, while lower segments exhibit more straightforward lateral flexion.

What anatomical consideration is crucial for assessing cervical spine injuries?

Well-developed intrinsic muscles create intersegmental restrictions affecting movement.

What are the kinematics of the cervical spine during rotation?

Ipsilateral rotation causes ipsilateral lateral flexion and involves opposing side glides.

What is a key consideration in treating cervical spine disorders in relation to posture?

Correcting forward head posture may relieve stress on the cervical spine.

What is a significant finding regarding head weight in relation to neck posture?

At 60 degrees of forward tilt, the perceived weight of the head is 40 lbs, akin to carrying a child.

How do muscle contractions influence cervical motion segments?

They can affect both segments, leading to postural distortions.

What limitations do the cervical spine muscles provide during neck movements?

Muscles help control motions like flexion, extension, and rotation while limiting excessive movement.

What significance does the capsule around the atlanto-occipital joint have?

It helps stabilize the joint and restricts excessive motion.

How does the cervical spine's biomechanics support daily activities?

It allows for a combination of motions like flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral flexion essential for head and neck movement.

Why is understanding cervical spine anatomy important for clinical practice?

It aids in diagnosing dysfunctions, developing treatment plans, and preventing injuries.