Cervical vertebra C5

Function

Carries the C5 nerve root — the key segment for shoulder abduction (deltoid) and elbow flexion via the axillary and musculocutaneous nerves.

Landmarks

• Body
• Transverse foramen
• Bifid spinous process
• Intervertebral foramen for C5 nerve

Articulations (joints)

• C4 above
• C6 below

Clinical relevance

C5–6 disc herniation is one of the commonest cervical disc levels, producing C6 radiculopathy with biceps reflex loss.