C7-T1 (Cervicothoracic Junction)

The C7-T1 spinal segment connects the neck (cervical spine) with the upper back (thoracic spine). Together they form the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ). Important features of this junction are:

  • The highly flexible neck transitions to an almost inflexible upper back.
  • The CTJ is about half as flexible as the cervical spine.
  • The lordosis or backward curvature of the cervical spine reverses into kyphosis or forward curvature of the thoracic spine.

These factors create an area of increased stress at the CTJ, both at rest and during movement. This area of stress may lead to CTJ dysfunction or instability during an injury, infection, or tumors that may affect this region.

CDJ Osteopath

Anatomy of the C7-T1 Spinal Motion Segment

The C7-T1 motion segment includes the following structures:

  • C7 and T1 vertebrae. These vertebrae are connected by a pair of facet joints in the back and each has a vertebral body, 2 pedicles, 2 transverse processes (bony humps on the side where muscles can attach and pull on the vertebrae), 2 lamina, and a spinous process. The distinguishing features include:
    • C7, also called vertebra prominens, is the last cervical vertebra. T1 is the first thoracic vertebra.
    • C7 has a longer spinous process (bony protrusion), which can be felt in the back of the neck. T1’s spinous process projects at a more downward angle and may not be as prominent.
    • T1 connects to the first rib with costovertebral joints. These vertebrae are held together with ligaments at multiple attachment points.
  • C7-T1 intervertebral disc. A disc made of a thick fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) that surrounds an inner gel-like material (nucleus pulposus) is situated between the C7 and T1 vertebrae. This disc protects the vertebrae by providing cushioning and shock-absorbing functions during neck movements.
  • C8 spinal nerve. The C8 spinal nerve exits the spinal cord in between the C7 and T1 vertebrae through a small bony opening called the intervertebral foramen. This nerve has a sensory root and a motor root.
    • The C8 dermatome is an area of skin that receives sensation through the C8 nerve. This dermatome can vary, but it typically includes areas of skin over parts of the neck, shoulder, forearm, hand, and the little finger.
    • The C8 myotome is a group of muscles controlled by the C8 nerve. These muscles commonly include those involved in bending the wrist and the fingers.

The C7 and T1 vertebrae are connected in the back by a pair of facet joints that allow limited forward, backward, and twisting motions. The first rib attaches to the T1 vertebra at the costovertebral joint. This connection to the rib cage adds support and rigidity to the cervicothoracic junction.

Articular cartilage enables the facet joints to move smoothly, while muscles, tendons, and ligaments help hold the vertebrae together. A strain or tear to any of these tissues can cause neck pain and stiffness.

The C8 spinal nerve branches out from the spinal cord and exits on each side through the intervertebral foramen. It receives sensory information from skin on the pinky side of the hand and forearm. The C8 nerve also has a motor component that sends signals to various muscles, such as the finger flexors.

Neck hump

Common Symptoms and Signs Stemming from C7-T1

A vertebral, rib, and/or disc injury at the C7-T1 level may cause moderate to severe neck pain and/or upper back pain. Sometimes, there may be difficulty in breathing if the first rib or rib muscles are injured.

If the C8 nerve is compressed or irritated, additional symptoms may occur, such as:

  • Pain in parts of the shoulder, forearm, hand, and/or little finger.
  • Numbness in the forearm and/or hand
  • Weakness in the wrist, hand, and/or fingers.

Nonsurgical treatments are usually tried first to treat CTJ injuries. In cases where instability of the CTJ occurs or when nonsurgical treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be considered.

Nonsurgical Treatment for C7-T1

Nonsurgical treatments of C7-T1 include:

Physical therapy. Shoulder pain caused by CTJ injuries may be treated with physical therapy under the guidance of a trained physical therapist. Manual therapy and therapeutic exercises may be considered integral parts of any appropriate physical therapy program.