APPLIED RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -C1, the atlas, has no spinous process and articulates with the occipital condyles of the occiput bone of the skull, forming the occipital-atlanto (OA) joint. It connects the skull to the neck, also providing attachment points for some neck muscles. It also functions to bear the weight of the skull, providing support.

Detailed explanation-2: -The atlas and axis vertebrae are the two most superior bones in the vertebral column, and they are part of the seven cervical vertebrae. The atlas is the top-most bone, sitting just below the skull; it is followed by the axis. Together, they support the skull, facilitate neck movement, and protect the spinal cord.

Detailed explanation-3: -The C1 atlas is the uppermost cervical vertebra of the spine. It supports the head and-along with the C2 axis, the cervical vertebra just below it-allows the head to nod and rotate from side to side. At birth, children have softer bones. That is true of the C1 atlas as well.

Detailed explanation-4: -Your first vertebra (C1), also called the atlas, is a ring-shaped bone that begins at the base of your skull. It’s named after Atlas, of Greek mythology, who held the world on his shoulders. The atlas holds your head upright.

Detailed explanation-5: -The most common explanation why the first cervical vertebra is called atlas is that the vertebra holds up the globe of the cranium the way Atlas holds up the globe of the heavens.