yläkaulan

Yläkaulan is a term used in Finnish to describe the upper part of the neck. This anatomical region encompasses structures like the cervical vertebrae, the muscles and connective tissues that support the head, and the vascular and nervous supply to the head. It is a crucial area for movement and sensation, allowing for a wide range of head motions and transmitting vital information between the brain and the rest of the body.

The musculature of the yläkaulan is complex, including muscles like the sternocleidomastoid and the trapezius, which are essential for turning and tilting the head. The cervical spine, composed of seven vertebrae, provides the bony framework and protects the spinal cord, a critical part of the central nervous system. Blood vessels, such as the carotid arteries and vertebral arteries, run through this region to supply the brain with oxygenated blood. Nerves, including cranial nerves and cervical spinal nerves, also pass through the yläkaulan, facilitating sensory input and motor control.

Injuries to the yläkaulan, such as whiplash, can have significant consequences due to the delicate nature of the structures involved. Conditions affecting this area can lead to pain, stiffness, and neurological symptoms. Medical attention is often sought for persistent discomfort or functional limitations related to the upper neck.