What Is the Atlas?
Atlas is the first cervical vertebra in the neck, located beneath the skull and above the axis. Named for its role in supporting the head, the atlas has a ring-like shape and helps the upper neck bend and rotate. Its joints and surrounding tissues may be assessed during a chiropractic adjustment.
Quick Facts About Atlas
Category
Upper cervical vertebra
Used for
Assessing upper-neck structure and movement
Common confusion
Confused with the axis or entire neck
Also called
C1 vertebra, First cervical vertebra
Often discussed with
Chiropractic Adjustment
Key Takeaways About Atlas
- The atlas is the first cervical vertebra.
- Its joints help coordinate upper-neck movement.
- Atlas does not mean the entire cervical spine.
How Atlas Works
The atlas forms the upper connection between the skull and the cervical spine. Its broad ring surrounds the spinal cord and supports the base of the skull. The atlas works with the axis, the second cervical vertebra, to guide head motion. The joint surfaces and nearby muscles help control how the head bends and rotates.
Related glossary terms: Axis, Cervical Spine, Cervical Lordosis.
During a chiropractic adjustment, a clinician may examine the atlas as part of an assessment of the upper neck. This process can include observing posture, checking active range of motion, and feeling joint movement. Findings are considered alongside the rest of the cervical spine, since neck joints and muscles work together. The adjustment approach depends on the examination and the person’s reported symptoms.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Savannah team
When we assess the atlas during a Chiropractic Adjustment, we consider its relationship with the skull, axis, neck muscles, and the rest of the cervical spine. We combine movement findings with the patient’s history before selecting an adjustment approach. This helps us keep the upper-neck assessment specific instead of treating one vertebra in isolation.
Atlas in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with limited neck rotation may receive an upper-neck assessment that includes the atlas and axis. The chiropractor may compare movement on both sides before deciding whether a Chiropractic Adjustment is appropriate.
Related Services
Related Terms
Axis
The axis is the second cervical vertebra in the neck. It sits below the atlas and…
Cervical Spine
The cervical spine is the neck section of the vertebral column that supports the head and…
Cervical Lordosis
Cervical Lordosis is the natural inward curve of the neck portion of the spine. This curve…
Range Of Motion
Range Of Motion is the amount and direction a joint can move through its available path…
Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Savannah
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