Cervical Vertebrae

Start with the vertebrae

Begin with the flowchart Bones in the Cervical Spine for an overview of the cervical vertebrae and their joints. It identifies the atlas and axis alongside the other cervical vertebrae. Use it to organize the names before focusing on individual structures.

Next, open the flashcards showing the axis from above. They cover features including the dens, body, pedicle and spinous process. The atlas flashcards offer another resource for studying a superior view.

Explore the joints and spine

The Upper Cervical flashcards cover the joints between the occiput and atlas, and between the atlas and axis. They also include symptoms of upper cervical damage. Use them after the flowchart to connect the named bones with the joints between them.

For a broader view, try Functional Anatomy of the Cervical Spine. This mind map brings together vertebrae, nerve roots, facet joints, ligaments and intervertebral discs. The Cervical & Thoracic Spine mind map also covers cervical vertebral structure and joints.

Pair a quiz with a map

Use a mind map to review how structures relate, then try a quiz to check what you can identify or explain. Anatomy - Chapter 8A includes image-labeling questions. The biomechanics and anatomy quiz asks about vertebral bodies and facets. Return to a map or flashcard deck when you want to study a feature again.

Place the topic in the unit

Cervical Vertebrae is a section of Vertebral Column and Back in Anatomy. The resources here let you move from individual structures to joints and the cervical spine as a whole. Choose a map or quiz and make it your next study step.