cervical spine x ray degenerative joint disease

The top section of the cervical spinal canal is very spacious. The discs also act as a shock-absorbing cushion to protect the cervical vertebrae. The discs and joints allow movement and provide stability. The discs and two small joints connect one vertebra to the next. Their gel-like center is called the nucleus pulposus. Their tough outer layer is called the annulus fibrosus. The discs are made up of strong connective tissue. Intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae in the cervical spine. The opening in the center of each vertebra forms the spinal canal. The lamina creates a roof-like cover over the back of the opening in each vertebra. The back part of the vertebra arches to form the lamina. Seven vertebrae make up the cervical area of your spine. Your neck can bend forward and backward, tilt from side to side, and turn or rotate to the right and left. It also has the greatest amount of mobility and flexibility. The cervical spine supports less weight than any other portion of the spine.

Your cervical spine supports your head and connects it to your trunk. The cervical spine is located in the neck. The structural changes can put pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves, resulting in pain and loss of function. As the disc deteriorates, it affects the structure of the vertebrae. Aging can cause the discs to lose fluid, collapse, and sometimes rupture. Intervertebral discs are shock-absorbing pads located between vertebrae, the small bones that make up your spine.

Read more about Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease - Spinal Cord and Nerve Compression IntroductionĬervical degenerative disc disease is a condition that can compress the spinal cord and nerves in the neck.

Cervical spine x ray degenerative joint disease