C3, C4, & C5 Vertebrae Spinal Cord Injury

C3, C4, and C5 spinal cord injuries are classified as high cervical injuries, among the most serious types of spinal cord damage. Because this region helps control breathing, arm and shoulder movement, and other vital functions, injuries at these levels can have life-altering effects. This page explains the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for C3–C5 injuries, along with what patients and families can expect during recovery.

The C3, C4, and C5 vertebrae form the midsection of the cervical spine near the base of the neck. A cervical vertebrae injury is often the most severe of all spinal cord injuries because the higher up in the spine an injury occurs, the more damage it can cause to the central nervous system. Depending on the severity of the trauma, the injury may be classified as complete or incomplete.

C3 Spinal Vertebra Defined

The C2 - C3 junction of the spinal column is important, as this is where flexion and extension occur (flexion is the movement of the chin toward the chest and extension is the backward movement of the head). Patients with a cervical vertebrae injury at the C3 level will have limited mobility in both their flexion and extension.

The C3 vertebra is in line with the lower section of the jaw and hyoid bone, which holds the tongue in place. The flexible C3 vertebrae helps aid in the bending and rotation of the neck.

C4 Spinal Vertebra Defined

This central portion of the spinal cord, which relates to the C4 vertebra, contains nerves that run to the diaphragm, which helps us breathe by contracting and pulling air into the lungs. The C4 vertebra is located in the neck region of the spinal column, just above the thoracic vertebrae. It is located in close proximity to the thyroid cartilage.

C5 Spinal Vertebra Defined

The C5 spinal vertebra is the fifth vertebra from the top of the column. The C5 vertebra is significant for determining the severity of neck and spinal injury. If the injury is at or above the C5 vertebra, the person may be unable to breathe since the spinal cord nerves located between the third and fifth cervical vertebrae control respiration. Damage to the spinal cord at the C5 vertebra also affects the vocal cords, biceps, and deltoid muscles in the upper arms.