kaelalüli

Kaelalüli is the Estonian term for the cervical vertebrae, the upper part of the spinal column located in the neck. In humans there are seven cervical vertebrae, designated C1 through C7. The first two—atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—have specialized anatomy: the atlas supports the skull and forms the atlanto-occipital joint with the occipital bone, enabling nodding movements; the axis bears the odontoid process (dens), which forms the atlantoaxial joint that allows most of the head's rotational movement.

The remaining cervical vertebrae (C3–C7) share common features: relatively small vertebral bodies, a triangular vertebral foramen, and transverse foramina that transmit the vertebral arteries and veins. The spinous processes are often short and, in C2–C6, may be bifid. The C7 vertebra typically has a longer, non-bifid spinous process.

Functions of kaelalüli include supporting the head, protecting the spinal cord, and permitting a wide range of head and neck movements. The spine is stabilized by ligaments, intervertebral discs between adjacent vertebrae, and surrounding muscles.

Clinical relevance: cervical vertebrae are involved in common injuries and conditions such as whiplash, cervical radiculopathy from nerve compression (often at C5–C6 or C6–C7), degenerative cervical spondylosis, and cervical spine stenosis. Diagnosis typically relies on imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI). Treatment ranges from conservative management to surgical interventions when indicated.

See also: spine, cervical spine, atlas, axis.