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What is the Function of the Atlas and Axis?

Atlas and Axis Bones

When you think about the atlas and the axis – do you think about world geography? A globe? Or a pair of very important bones?

The first seven vertebrae in the spine make up what is known as the cervical spine. It begins right below the neck and ends where the middle 12 vertebrae, or thoracic spine, begin.

The two uppermost vertebrae at the top of the cervical spine are different from the others in this grouping because they provide the neck with the ability to rotate. The atlas (C1) is the first cervical vertebra; it is located between the skull and the remaining vertebrae of the spine. Directly below the atlas is the axis (C2). Special ligaments link these two vertebrae, allowing a great deal of rotation between them.

When we talk about “head rotation,” we are really referring to the atlas rotating on the axis. These two bones, working in tandem, give your head its ability to turn from side to side.

Because the cervical spine is so flexible, it is quite susceptible to injury. When you hear about whiplash injuries sustained in a car crash, these two vertebrae are often involved. When you stop to consider that this relatively small area of the spine supports the head, it is easy to understand how abrupt head movement could cause damage, let alone a car crash with a violent head jerk!

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Dr. John Asks some important questions of interest to Bismarck residents - Chiropractor Bismarck Dr. John Asks...

Why does chiropractic work?
Chiropractic works because your nervous system, consisting of your brain, spinal cord and all the nerves of your body, controls and regulates every cell, tissue, organ and system of your body. A chiropractor locates and reduces areas of nervous system compromise (usually along the spine) so your capacity to heal is restored. Chiropractic works by helping your body work as it was designed.
If you have a fever, are you sick or healthy?
Chiropractors love asking this question because it gets to the root of the chiropractic difference. Turns out fevers, vomiting, coughing and even sneezing are all healthy responses. It means your body is working correctly. Taking medications to suppress these natural processes can actually prolong your recovery.