C5 is the most commonly fractured cervical vertebra in flexion injuries. The C5 nerve root is associated with deltoid and biceps function, making it a critical level for assessment after cervical trauma.
| Articulations |
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|---|---|
| Landmarks |
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| Ossification | As per C3 vertebra pattern. |
C5 is the most common level of cervical spondylotic myelopathy because the spinal canal is narrowest here relative to cord size. C4-C5 disc herniation produces C5 radiculopathy (deltoid and biceps weakness, lateral arm numbness). Post-laminectomy C5 palsy from cord drift with decompression at this level is a recognised complication of cervical decompression surgery.
A severe flexion-compression injury breaks off the anteroinferior corner of the C5 body and is often associated with posterior displacement and serious spinal cord injury.
One of the most common cervical disc levels, causing C6 radiculopathy with pain and numbness into the thumb and weakness of wrist extension.
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