C2 Spine Injury. Damage at the c2 level can significantly affect motor control and sensation throughout the entire body. This type of injury results in severe instability of the c1 c2 joint. The axis c2 is the most commonly fractured vertebra in the upper cervical spine. According to the american spinal injury association c2 provides sensory supply to the area over the back of the head and the top part of the neck.
Its unique anatomy and architecture pose difficulties in the diagnosis and the management of its fractures. The c2 fracture can be best appreciated in the sagittal view where there is clear separation of the c2 body with the c2 spine. They may allow for some feeling movement on one side of the body or even movement in some limbs. The spinal cord is a delicate bundle of nerves that transmits messages between the body and brain. A c2 spinal cord injury is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. For example an injury to the neck the first and second vertebrae in the spinal column c1 c2 or the mid cervical vertebrae c3 c4 and c5 affects the respiratory muscles and the ability to breathe.
The c2 fracture can be best appreciated in the sagittal view where there is clear separation of the c2 body with the c2 spine.
More common cervical spinal cord injuries affect the c4 and c5 levels. When the transverse ligament ligament that holds the c1 and c2 vertebrae together is partially or completely torn. Complete injuries refer to instances in which a person retains no sensation or movement below the level of injury. They may allow for some feeling movement on one side of the body or even movement in some limbs. The spinal cord is a delicate bundle of nerves that transmits messages between the body and brain. This is why a serious injury to that cervical joint is considered the worst spinal injury.