Where is the articular pillar located on a cervical vertebra?

The articular pillar of a cervical vertebra is located on the posterior side of the vertebra. Here are the steps to locate it:

1. Identify the cervical vertebra: The cervical vertebrae are the seven vertebrae that make up the neck. They are the smallest and lightest vertebrae and are designated C1 through C7.

2. Locate the vertebral body: This is the thick, disc-shaped anterior portion of the vertebra. It is the weight-bearing part of the vertebra and is usually the part that is closest to you if you are looking at a model or diagram of the spine.

3. Find the vertebral arch: This is the posterior part of the vertebra, which arches around to form a space for the spinal cord. The vertebral arch is made up of two pedicles and two laminae.

4. Identify the articular processes: These are the four projections that extend from where the pedicles and laminae meet. There are two superior and two inferior articular processes.

5. Locate the articular pillar: The articular pillar is located between the superior and inferior articular processes on the posterior side of the vertebra. It is a column of bone that helps to stabilize the vertebrae and prevent them from twisting too far.