

Also, both types of vertebrae occur at the beginning of the neck.

They hold the skull, allowing the motion of the head.Atlas and axis vertebrae are the first two cervical vertebrae of the spine.Similarities Between Atlas and Axis Vertebrae For this, the atlas vertebra contains an oval articulation for the dens of the axis. Also, articulating with the second cervical vertebra, the axis, it allows the head to achieve a wide range of motions. Moreover, the superior articular facets of the atlas are concave and elongate, receiving the condyles of the occipital bone. Here, it articulates with the occipital bone, which is a flat bone at the back portion of the head. That means the main function of the atlas is to support the globe of the head. – Comparison of Key Differences Key TermsĪtlanto-Axial Joint, Atlas, Axis, Cervical Vertebrae, Neck, Odontoid ProcessĪtlas (C1) vertebra is the first cervical vertebra of the spine, named from the mythical Greek god who carried the world on his shoulders. What is the Difference Between Atlas and Axis Vertebrae What are the Similarities Between Atlas and Axis VertebraeĤ. They occur at the beginning of the spine, involving in the formation of the neck. Furthermore, atlas help to hold the head upright while axis allows the head to turn side to side.Ītlas and axis vertebrae are two distinct elements of the vertebral column. The main difference between atlas and axis vertebrae is that atlas is the first cervical vertebra, which supports the skull whereas axis is the second cervical vertebra, which forms the pivot upon the atlas.
