Intervertebral Disk of Sixth Cervical Vertebra (C6–C7) (Discus intervertebralis C6–C7)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The intervertebral disk of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6–C7) connects the lower cervical spine to the cervicothoracic junction. Enduring maximum excursion forces during neck flexion and axial loading, its thick anulus fibrosus anchors the subaxial vertebrae while the resilient nucleus pulposus accommodates hydraulic pressures.
Clinical notes
The C6–C7 disk is the single most frequent site of cervical disc herniation (~60% of cases); compression of the C7 root causes triceps weakness, diminished triceps reflex, and sensory loss in the middle finger.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Intervertebral Disk of Sixth Cervical Vertebra (C6–C7)?
The intervertebral disk of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6–C7) connects the lower cervical spine to the cervicothoracic junction. Enduring maximum excursion forces during neck flexion and axial loading, its thick anulus fibrosus anchors the subaxial vertebrae while the resilient nucleus pulposus accommodates hydraulic pressures.
Why is the Intervertebral Disk of Sixth Cervical Vertebra (C6–C7) clinically important?
The C6–C7 disk is the single most frequent site of cervical disc herniation (~60% of cases); compression of the C7 root causes triceps weakness, diminished triceps reflex, and sensory loss in the middle finger.
Source & license
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