Not to be confused with C2, the plastic explosive, the second vertebrae at the top of your neck is also referred to as C2 (Cervical 2). But yours is not explosive. (Thank goodness for small favors.)
It is commonly referred to as the axis. The axis has a bony process on the top that articulates with C1 above it which allows the head to rotate from side to side. The C2 nerve supplies sensation and muscle control to the neck and parts of the head.
I almost always feel and check this part of your upper neck as misalignments at C2 are very common and can contribute to all kinds of different symptoms. Aside from the general aches and pain and stiffness from subluxations (bones slightly out of ideal location) in this area, patients could experience vertigo, dizziness, facial pain, arm pain and migraine headaches to name a few.
If you put your finger on the base of your skull and drop just underneath in and push hard, what you are feeling is the spinous process of the C2 vertebrae. I can show you next time you visit if you are curious. Until then, get outside and move around a bit. And then do it again.
Make a commitment to your health today.
Stay well adjusted,
Dr. Dan Kammer