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The tip of the spinal cord near the skull is called the cervical spine. Its also called the skull supporting vertebra structure. Its not a separate entity of the spinal cord, its the topmost portion of the spine. The cervical spine is made up of 7 vertebrae and there are eight pairs of cervical nerves in that area.
The vertebra bones of these area are smaller compared to the other bones of the spine except the tail of the spine. The cervical spine is very important for the following functions.
1. It protects the spinal cord where it adjoins 'medulla oblangata.'
2. It supports the skull having most of the sense organs and the most commanding organ of the body, the brain.
3. It helps in easy movement of the head, and comfortable bending of the neck.
There is a complex network of nerves, muscles, tendons and ligaments to support the spine. The ligaments of the cervical spine control the excessive movement of head or neck that can cause serious injury. The muscles form a balance in the neck region and also supports the stability.
Another importance of the cervical spine is that it supports the bundle of peripheral nervous system(PNS). The PNS is responsible for the carrying of nerve impulses for reflex actions. When we step into a nail, the moment we reflex by jumping. The reflex action is not the work of brain but the spinal cord near cervical spine. Thus, the PNS form a network near the tip of the spinal to enter the spinal cord.
Its very essential to take care of the cervical spine. The ligaments and the discs of the vertebra joints are very fragile and critical injury can cause them to swell and cause chronic cervical back pain and spondylosis. Bad postures of sitting, watching TV etc can cause harm to this area. Hence, take care to protect one of the vital organ of your body.
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