The 8 cervical spinal nerves are named C1 through C8.
Understanding Cervical Spinal Nerves
Despite having only 7 cervical vertebrae, the spinal cord has 8 cervical nerve pairs. These nerves play a vital role in the function of the head, neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
The 8 Cervical Nerves
Here are the 8 cervical spinal nerves:
| Cervical Nerve | Description |
|---|---|
| C1 | The first cervical nerve, located at the top of the spinal cord, between the base of the skull and the first vertebra. |
| C2 | Located between the first and second vertebrae |
| C3 | Located between the second and third vertebrae. |
| C4 | Located between the third and fourth vertebrae. |
| C5 | Located between the fourth and fifth vertebrae. |
| C6 | Located between the fifth and sixth vertebrae. |
| C7 | Located between the sixth and seventh vertebrae. |
| C8 | The eighth cervical nerve exits below the seventh cervical vertebra. |
Unique Exit Pattern
It is important to note that the first 7 cervical nerves (C1-C7) exit cranially (above) their corresponding vertebrae. The 8th cervical nerve (C8), however, exits caudally (below) the 7th cervical vertebra, C7. This difference is illustrated in the reference "...the first 7 cervical nerves exit the spine cranially to their associated vertebrae, while the 8th cervical nerve exits caudally to C7 (see Image. Cervical Nerves)."
Functions
These cervical spinal nerves are responsible for:
- Motor control and sensation in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
- Innervation of the diaphragm, which is crucial for breathing.
