What does C1 - C7 refer to in anatomy?

C1 to C7 refers to the first through seventh cervical vertebrae in the human spine. The cervical vertebrae are located in the neck region and are responsible for supporting the skull, protecting the spinal cord, and allowing a wide range of head movements. Each cervical vertebra is numbered starting from C1 at the top, which is known as the atlas, to C7 at the bottom, known as the vertebra prominens due to its prominent spinous process. Understanding this classification is crucial for identifying the location of injuries or conditions affecting the cervical spine and for discussions related to anatomy and neurology.