what does the c7 nerve control

The C7 myotome is a group of muscles controlled by the C7 nerve. These muscles include those involved in straightening the elbow, lifting the wrist, elongating the fingers to an outstretched hand, and the triceps muscle in the upper arm. The C6 and C7 vertebrae help protect the spinal cord within the spinal canal.

Full Answer

What nerves does C6 and C7 affect?

The C6 nerve roots, which exit the spinal column between the C6 vertebra and the C7 vertebra, directly affects the control of the muscles in the forearms and wrists. The C7 vertebra sits directly below the C6 spinal vertebra and is part of the lower levels of the cervical spine, near the base of the neck.

What does C7 nerve root control?

This nerve has a sensory root and a motor root. The C7 dermatome is an area of skin that receives sensations through the C7 nerve. This dermatome includes areas of skin covering the shoulders, back of the arms, and the middle finger. The C7 myotome is a group of muscles controlled by the C7 nerve. These muscles include those involved in straightening the elbow, lifting the wrist, elongating the fingers to an outstretched hand, and the triceps muscle in the upper arm.

Where do symptoms occur with a pinched nerve at the C7 level?

At the C6-C7 level, cervical radiculopathy affects the C7 nerve root, and symptoms can include pain, tingling, numbness , and/or weakness that radiates from the neck down the shoulder and arm, to the forearm and into the palm and middle finger of the hand.

How serious is a C7 fracture?

C7 spinal cord injury and other injuries to the lower cervical vertebrae/nerves can result in paralysis and other health complications. The C6 and C7 cervical vertebrae (and the C8 spinal nerve) form the lowest levels of the cervical spine and directly impact the arm and hand muscles.

What does C7 nerve pain feel like?

C7 radiculopathy. Tingling, numbness, and/or pain may be felt down the arm and into the middle finger. Weakness may be experienced in the back of the upper arm (triceps).

What happens if C7 is damaged?

Symptoms of a C7 Spinal Cord Injury A survivor of a C7 SCI will likely have full neck movement but may sense tingling and numbness in the hands and fingers, as well as referred pain in the shoulder blade. Symptoms of a C7 SCI include: Burning pain in the shoulder blade and/or back of the arms (triceps)

What part of the body does C6/C7 affect?

Video Transcript. The C6 C7 spinal motion segment is located in the lower part of the cervical spine and consists of the C6 and C7 vertebrae, and the anatomical structures connecting them. This segment helps provide neck flexibility, supports the cervical spine and head, and protects the spinal cord and nerve pathways.

What are the symptoms of a pinched nerve at C7?

When the C7 nerve is compressed or irritated, additional complaints may follow, such as: Pain from the neck radiating to the shoulder down to the middle finger. Numbness in the palm, index finger, and middle finger. Weakness in the upper arm, forearm, elbow, and wrist; affecting the motion of these regions.

What muscles does C7 control?

Cervical nerve 7 controls your triceps and wrist extensor muscles. C7 provides sensation to the back of your arm into your middle finger. Cervical nerve 8 controls your hands and gives sensation to the pinky side of your hand and forearm.

How do you fix a pinched nerve C7?

Spinal nerve pain from C7 may be treated with steroid injections in the epidural space, around the C7 nerve itself, or injections into the facet joint of the C6 and C7 vertebrae. Risks of these injection procedures include hematoma, bleeding, and nerve damage.

What are the symptoms of a pinched nerve at C6 C7?

When a C6-C7 herniated disc occurs and the C6-C7 nerve root is irritated, the symptoms usually include neck pain and pain in the arms, weakness in the hands and weakness in the arms, shoulder pain, chest pains, uncontrollable sweating, headaches, and possibly more. Many times, this condition can be misdiagnosed.

What nerves do C5 C6/C7 affect?

From the lateral cord, C5, C6, and C7 supply the pectoralis major and minor muscles, via the lateral and medial pectoral nerves, as well as the coracobrachialis, brachialis and biceps brachii, via the musculocutaneous nerve. The musculocutaneous nerve provides sensation to the skin of the lateral forearm.

Can C6/C7 cause breathing problems?

People with injuries impacting the C6-68 levels of the spinal cord still can breathe on their own. However, in some cases, they may experience difficulty taking a deep breath and exhaling forcefully.

Can C7 cause chest pain?

Cervical angina is one potential cause of noncardiac chest pain and originates from disorders of the cervical spine. Although the exact incidence is unknown, in 1 series of 241 patients with C7 radiculopathy undergoing anterior cervical diskectomy, 16% of the patients had associated chest pain or subscapular pain.

Can a pinched nerve be detected with an MRI?

MRI scans which show soft tissues, such as nerves and discs, are generally preferred over CT scans which show bony elements. Advanced imaging can show exactly which nerve or nerves are being pinched and what is causing the nerve to be pinched.

What surgery is done for pinched nerve in neck?

Generally, spinal specialists recommend a laminectomy for pinched nerves developing from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or other spinal condition. Some cases of spondylolisthesis may also benefit from a laminectomy. During a laminectomy, a spinal surgeon will remove the bony spinous process.

How long does a broken C7 take to heal?

It is usually a very stable fracture and does not produce any neurologic deficits. It typically heals with 6-8 weeks of relative rest with no further treatment being needed in most cases.

What does C7 connect to?

Like the C3 through C6 vertebrae, C7 has a thicker area of bone called the body, located anterior to the vertebral foramen. The body of C7 supports the collective weight of the head and neck. Facets lateral to the C7's body allow the C7 to form joints with the C6 vertebra above it and the T1 below it.

What does C7 and T1 control?

The C7-T1 spinal motion segment connects the neck (cervical spine) with the upper back (thoracic spine). Together they form the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ). Important features of this junction are: The highly flexible neck transitions to an almost inflexible upper back.

What is the C7 vertebra?

C7 (7th Cervical Vertebra) The 7th cervical (C7) vertebra is the largest and most inferior vertebra in the neck region. Unlike the other cervical vertebrae, the C7 has a large spinous process that protrudes posteriorly toward the skin at the back of the neck. This spinous process can be easily seen and felt at the base of the neck, ...

What is the C7?

As the transitional vertebra between the cervical and thoracic regions, the C7 has some features of both the cervical and thoracic vertebrae. Like the C3 through C6 vertebrae, C7 has a thicker area of bone called the body, located anterior to the vertebral foramen. The body of C7 supports the collective weight of the head and neck.

Which ligament connects the occipital bone of the skull to the C7 vertebra?

The end of the nuchal ligament, which supports the muscles of the neck and connects the occipital bone of the skull to the C7 vertebra, attaches at the tip of the spinous process.

Which tissue passes through the vertebral foramen?

Delicate tissues, including the spinal cord and nerves, pass through the vertebral foramen and are protected by the vertebral arch. Extending from both lateral sides of the vertebral arch are the transverse processes and their tiny, hollow transverse foramina.

Where does the C8 nerve exit?

C8 spinal nerve. The C8 spinal nerve exits the spinal cord in between the C7 and T1 vertebrae through a small bony opening called the intervertebral foramen. This nerve has a sensory root and a motor root. The C8 dermatome is an area of skin that receives sensation through the C8 nerve.

What is the C7 T1?

The C7-T1 spinal motion segment connects the neck ( cervical spine) with the upper back ( thoracic spine ). Together they form the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ). Important features of this junction are:

What is a fracture of the spinous process of C7 and/or T1?

A fracture of the spinous process of C7 and/or T1 is called clay-shoveler’s fracture. This fracture occurs due to repetitive and forceful pull of the upper back muscles on these spinous processes. 6. See Vertebral Fracture Symptoms. Tumors. Tumors affecting the CTJ are usually the advanced (metastatic) type.

What nerve causes drooping eyelids?

In severe cases, CTJ injuries may affect the spinal cord or the C8 nerve roots. Rarely, C8 nerve injury may cause Horner’s syndrome characterized by drooping eyelids, small pupils, and sunken eyeballs usually affecting one side of the face. 7

What is the C8 dermatome?

The C8 dermatome is an area of skin that receives sensation through the C8 nerve. This dermatome can vary, but it typically includes areas of skin over parts of the neck, shoulder, forearm, hand, and the little finger. The C8 myotome is a group of muscles controlled by the C8 nerve.

Which vertebra is the last cervical vertebra?

C7 , also called vertebra prominens, is the last cervical vertebra. T1 is the first thoracic vertebra. C7 has a longer spinous process (bony protrusion), which can be felt in the back of the neck. T1’s spinous process projects at a more downward angle and may not be as prominent.

Which body protects the spinal cord?

The vertebral bodies and arches protect the spinal cord within the spinal canal.

What is the key to success with C7?

A C7 spinal cord injury can be overwhelming, but the key to success is to stay positive and focus on what you CAN do.

Where is the C7 segment?

However, because the C7 segment is further down the cervical region of the spinal cord, the majority of your arm functions may be spared.

What Can I Do After C7 Spinal Cord Injury?

Focusing on what you can do rather than what you can’t will help keep you motivated throughout your recovery phase.

What are the direct outcomes of C7 spinal cord injury?

Direct Outcomes of C7 Spinal Cord Injury. The nerve roots at each level of the spinal cord innervate different parts of the body. They can be tested at their unique dermatomes and myotomes. A dermatome is an area of skin that is primarily innervated by a single spinal nerve root. It is the origin of sensations.

How to test C7 dermatome?

You can test the C7 dermatome with a pinprick at the middle finger. Myotomes are the muscles innervated by a single nerve root. Most muscles are innervated by more than one spinal root. The muscles innervated by the C7 spinal root include the triceps, wrist flexors, and finger extensors.

What is the autonomic nervous system responsible for?

Your autonomic nervous system is responsible for the regulation of involuntary body functions like temperature regulation, heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.

Can you lose motor control with a spinal cord injury?

Depending on the severity of your spinal cord injury, you may lose motor control and/or sensation below your level of injury. Spinal cord injuries can be complete or incomplete. A complete injury means that the spinal cord is severed all the way through and connections between the brain and areas below the level of injury no longer exist.

Which muscle is the C7?

These muscles include those involved in straightening the elbow, lifting the wrist, elongating the fingers to an outstretched hand, and the triceps muscle in the upper arm.

What are the symptoms of C7 nerve compression?

When the C7 nerve is compressed or irritated, additional complaints may follow, such as: Pain from the neck radiating to the shoulder down to the middle finger. 3. Numbness in the palm, index finger, and middle finger. 3. Weakness in the upper arm, forearm, elbow, and wrist; affecting the motion of these regions. 3.

What are the components of the C6-C7 spinal segment?

Key components of the C6 vertebra include a vertebral body, a vertebral arch, 2 transverse processes, a spinous process, and a pair of facet joints.

What is the spinous process in C7?

A more prominent spinous process is present in C7, which is also known as vertebra prominens. This process (a bony protrusion or hump) can be felt at the base of the neck and provides attachment to more neck muscles compared to the other cervical vertebrae.

What is the pain in the lower cervical area?

A vertebral and/or disc injury at the C6-C7 motion segment may cause immediate or delayed symptoms. A dull ache or burning pain may occur in the lower cervical area, often accompanied by neck stiffness.

What is the C6-C7 disc?

C6-C7 intervertebral disc. A disc made of a gel-like material (nucleus pulposus) surrounded by a thick fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) is situated in between the C6 and C7 vertebrae. This disc protects the vertebrae by providing shock-absorption during neck motion. C7 spinal nerve.

Which nerve exits through the intervertebral foramen between the C6 and C7 vertebrae?

The C7 spinal nerve exits through the intervertebral foramen between the C6 and C7 vertebrae. This nerve has a sensory root and a motor root. The C7 dermatome is an area of skin that receives sensations through the C7 nerve. This dermatome includes areas of skin covering the shoulders, back of the arms, and the middle finger.

What is the nerve root in the neck called?

This condition is called cervical radiculopathy. The C7 nerve root is located between the seventh and eighth vertebrae in your neck. Cervical radiculopathy exercises can help reduce your symptoms.

What is the C7 neck pain?

Bailey is also an Anatomy and Physiology professor and has been writing health and fitness articles for over 10 years. There are several exercises for the C7 neck. A pinched nerve in the neck can cause pain, limit motion and even lead to weakness in your arm. This condition is called cervical radiculopathy.

How to strengthen elbow extensors?

Push-ups are an effective strengthening exercise for your elbow extensors — particularly if you keep your elbows close to your sides. Begin in a plank position, with your body weight supported on your hands and the balls of your feet. Position your elbows next to your body.

What nerve root is most commonly affected by cervical radiculopathy?

Video of the Day. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the C7 nerve root is the most commonly affected by cervical radiculopathy. Advertisement. Check with your doctor or physical therapist before exercising if you have a pinched nerve.

How to do isometric flexion?

Move 3: Isometric Lateral Flexion/Side Bending. Place your right hand above your right ear. Tighten the muscles on the right side of your neck as if you are trying to bring your ear to your should er. Meet the resistance with your hand.

How to do a chin tuck?

While maintaining the chin tuck, look up toward the ceiling. Tip your right ear down toward your right shoulder. You will likely feel a stretch along the muscles on the left side of your neck. Do not bring your shoulder up toward your ear. Repeat on the opposite side.

What nerves do you use to straighten your elbow?

After the C7 nerve root leaves the spine, it branches off to supply muscles along the arm. If nerve compression is present for a significant amount of time, you might have weakness in these muscles. The C7 nerve root mainly powers muscles that straighten your elbow, according to Physiopedia. Perform 10 repetitions of each exercise, working up to three sets.

What is the cervical nerve?

Anatomy, Head and Neck, Cervical Nerves - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. Cervical nerves are spinal nerves that arise from the cervical region of the spinal cord. These nerves conduct motor and sensory information via efferent and afferent fibers, respectively, to and from the central nervous system. While classified as peripheral nerves, ...

Which nerves are involved in the head, neck, and upper limbs?

These nerves intertwine through plexuses that give rise to peripheral nerves that maintain a significant motor function in the head, neck, upper limbs, and diaphragm, as well as sensation in the head, neck, shoulders, and upper limbs in a dermatomal pattern.[1][2][3] Cervical nerves are spinal nerves that arise from the cervical region ...

What nerve joins the spinal cord?

For each spinal nerve, an anterior and posterior root join to form the completed nerve.[4] Shortly after branching out of the spinal cord, the cervical nerves form the cervical and brachial plexuses.

How many pairs of cervical nerves are there?

There are eight pairs of cervical nerves, denoted C1 to C8, that emerge from the spinal cord superior to their corresponding vertebrae, except for C8 that exits inferiorly to the C7 vertebra.

Where do the cervical plexus nerves come from?

The cutaneous branches of the cervical plexus transmit sensory information from the skin of the neck, the superior portions of the thorax, and the scalp.[7] These nerves emerge from a common point at the posterior aspect of the sternocleidomastoid, known as Erb’s point.[14] There are several branches:

Where are cervical nerves located in 2021?

Last Update: February 7, 2021. Introduction. Cervical nerves are spinal nerves that arise from the cervical region of the spinal cord. These nerves conduct motor and sensory information via efferent and afferent fibers, respectively, to and from the central nervous system.

Which nerves are responsible for motor and sensory supply to the diaphragm?

The C3, C4, and C5 roots contribute to form the phrenic nerves. These are responsible for motor and sensory supply to the diaphragm, as well as for sympathetic output. The phrenic nerves run anteriorly to the subclavian arteries, but posterior to the subclavian veins. [7]

Anatomy of The C7-T1 Spinal Motion Segment

Potential Problems at C7-T1

Common Symptoms and Signs Stemming from C7-T1

• A vertebral, rib, and/or disc injury at the C7-T1 level may cause moderate to severe neck pain and/or upper back pain. Sometimes, there may be difficulty in breathing if the first rib or rib muscles are injured. If the C8 nerve is compressed or irritated, additional symptoms may occur, such as: 1. Painin parts of the shoulder, forearm, hand, and/or...

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