The |axis| is the second of the seven |cervical vertebrae|, and is called such because it allows axial (rotational) movement of the |skull|. The |axis| lies directly beneath the |atlas| vertebra, their junction occurring at lateral articular surfaces and an unique juncture between a concave ~facet~ (on the |atlas|) and an upward-protruding dens (on the |axis|). This articulation is regulated by the alar ~ligament~, which attaches to both |atlas| and |axis|.
