While there are seven cervical vertebrae, there are eight pairs of cervical nerves, numbered C1 to C8. C7 has two distinct features that make it unique to a typical cervical vertebra: first, the vertebral vasculature does not traverse through its transverse foramina, and second, it contains along the spinous process, making C7 to be commonly known as 'vertebra prominens.' The most distinctive feature of the C2 vertebra is the presence of an odontoid process (dens) that rises from the superior aspect of its body and articulates with the posterior surface of the anterior arch of C1. C1 (atlas) articulates with the base of the skull and is unique in that it does not contain a body due to fusion with the C2 (axis) vertebrae, acting as a pivot point for the atlas to rotate. There are three atypical vertebrae in the cervical region. Completing the typical vertebra are seven processes, and they include two superior articular facets, two inferior articular facets, one spinous process, and two transverse processes that allow the passage of the vertebral vasculature. Together, the pedicles and the lamina form a ring around the spinal canal, which harbors the spinal cord. The vertebral arch is comprised of the pedicles, bony processes that project posteriorly from the vertebral body, and the lamina these are the bone segments that form most of the arch. The anatomy of C3 to C6 consists of a vertebral body, a vertebral arch, as well as seven processes. The structure of C1, C2, and C7 have distinctive properties that make them unique in comparison to the typical cervical vertebrae, C3 to C6. The cervical spine has seven vertebral bodies, numbered C1 to C7, counting from the base of the skull to the thoracic spine. The intervertebral discs are cartilaginous structures between adjacent vertebrae that support the spine by acting as shock-absorbing cushions to the axial loading of the body. The spine has several significant roles in the body that include: protection of the spinal cord and branching spinal nerves, structural support, and allows for flexibility and mobility of the body. It extends from the base of the skull to the coccyx and includes the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral regions. Subitems (1) and (2) govern supervised and unsupervised exercise, except for computerized exercise programs and health clubs, which are governed by part, along with intervertebral discs, form the vertebral column, or spine. While the provider may objectively measure the treatment response as often as necessary for optimal care, after the initial evaluation the health care provider may not bill for the tests sooner than two weeks after the initial evaluation and monthly thereafter. Strength, flexibility, and endurance must be objectively measured. While aerobic exercise and extremity strengthening may be performed as adjunctive treatment, it must not be the primary focus of the exercise program.Įxercises must be evaluated to determine if the desired goals are being attained. Exercise must, at least in part, be specifically aimed at the musculature of the cervical spine.

Exercise, which is important to the success of an initial nonsurgical treatment program and a return to normal activity, must include active patient participation in activities designed to increase flexibility, strength, endurance, or muscle relaxation.

Cervical spine x ray icd 10