What section of the vertebral column contains the first seven vertebrae?

The section of the vertebral column that contains the first seven vertebrae is the cervical spine. The cervical spine is composed of seven vertebrae, traditionally referred to as C1 through C7. This region of the spine is responsible for supporting the head, allowing for a wide range of motion, and protecting the spinal cord as it travels through the neck.

The cervical vertebrae are unique in their structure, particularly in the first two vertebrae, known as the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), which enable the nodding and rotating movements of the head. The cervical spine is positioned at the top of the vertebral column, making it the first segment.

In contrast, the thoracic spine contains twelve vertebrae that articulate with the ribs, the lumbar spine comprises five vertebrae located in the lower back, and the sacral spine consists of five fused vertebrae forming the posterior of the pelvis. Each of these sections has a distinct role and anatomical structure that varies from the cervical spine.