Cervical nerve roots

• Cervical nerve roots (C1–C7) exit above their corresponding vertebral bodies (e.g., C5 nerve exits above C5 vertebra).
• They traverse through the transverse foramen (neuroforamina) bordered anteriorly by the uncinate process and posteriorly by the facet joints.
• C8 nerve root exit between C7 and T1 (above T1 vertebra)
• C1 nerve root exits between the skull and C1 vertebra.
  • No dorsal (sensory) root or dorsal root ganglion in most individuals (~90% cases)
  • Predominantly motor nerve.

• C2 nerve root is anatomically unique:
  • Exits between posterior arch of C1 and pars of C2.
    • Lies posteriorly, superficial to the C1–C2 joint and surrounded by a venous plexus and soft tissue.

Image

Figure: Cervical nerve root. Notice the structures adjacent to to the nerve that can contribute to nerve compression: vertebral body, vertebral disc, and facet joint.