LOW BACK | For Life Therapy

Neck - Cervical

Did you know that looking down at a cell phone (approximately a 60-degree angle) adds up to 60 pounds of pressure on the cervical spine?! There is a reason that your Grandma told you to sit up straight - that is a lot of pressure on your neck all day long! In this technological age, more people are experiencing neck discomfort due to this reason. Your posture can affect more than just your neck, it can also cause other downstream effects to your shoulders, arms, back, and legs. It can also cause headaches.

Common injuries to the neck include whiplash, herniated discs, pinched nerves (cervical radiculopathy), and stiff muscles or tendons. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy are experts in diagnosing and treating your neck problems. We work with you to manage your pain and improve your posture for long-lasting results.

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Almost all mammals, including humans, have seven cervical spine (neck) vertebrae that support the skull (head) and allow movement. Did you know that the number of human neck bones is the same as a giraffe? In us humans, the cervical vertebra are known for some really cool things:

The first vertebra (C1), known as the Atlas, is named after the Greek god forced to hold the world, as it bears the weight of the skull.
The second vertebra (C2), or Axis, is the "no" joint because it has a "tooth-like" projection (dens) that creates a pivot point, allowing the head to turn side-to-side.
The third vertebra (C3) is the first "typical" vertebra and supports your hyoid bone. Its nerve provides sensation to the face.
The fourth vertebra (C4) sits level with your Adam's apple and the nerve is crucial to breathing and shoulder movement.
The fifth vertebra (C5) acts as the primary support for the head and neck's weight, making it highly susceptible to injury, degeneration, and herniated discs.
The sixth vertebra (C6) key for structural support, mobility, and protecting the spinal cord. It is notable for being the entry point for the vertebral artery and having a split spinous process.
The seventh cervical vertebra (C7) is called the vertebra prominens because it has a long, easily palpable spinous process, creating the bony bump at the base of your neck.