Human Osteology 2: Vertebral Column, Thorax, Shoulder and Pelvic Girdles

Question 1

What are the main parts of a vertebrae?

Answer 1

• The back has 5 sections:
• 7 Cervical Vertebrae
• 12 Thoracic Vertebrae
• 5 Lumbar Vertebrae
• Sacrum
• Coccyx (Tailbone)
• A total of 24 Vertebrae

Question 2

What is the anatomy of cervical neck region?

Answer 2

It consists of the first seven bones C1-C7)

Question 3

The Cervical Spine (Neck)

Answer 3

• Spinal process projects horizontally
• Presence of transverse foramen
• Small transverse processes
• Small, saddle shaped bodies.

Question 4

The atlas (C1)

Answer 4

Superior cervical vertebra of the spine which is located in the neck

Question 4

The Axis (C2)

Answer 4

Forms the pivot upon which the C1 that carries the head + rotates.
Composed of the vertebral body, heavy pedicles, laminae and transverse processes which serve as attachment points for muscles

Question 5

Function of C1 and C2

Answer 5

Give the head flexibility.
C1 + C2 helps to swivel and rotate the head and support the head.
Responsible for the head’s rotational range of motion than from any other joint.

Question 6

Cervical Vertebrae C3-6

Answer 6

Share the same basic characteristics with most of the vertebrae throughout the rest of the spine

Consists:
- 2 Tuberculii on transverse processes
- Transverse foramen
- Centrum
- Spinous process

Question 7

Cervical Vertebra C7: Function

Answer 7

Controls the triceps + wrist extensor muscles
Gives sensation to the back of the arm to the middle finger

Question 8

Cervical Vertebra C7: Structure

Answer 8

Largest body of all the cervical vertebrae: which protrudes posteriorly toward the skin at the back of the neck

Question 9

The Thoracic Spine (Chest): Function

Answer 9

• Aids to stabilise the ribcage
  rib cage helps to stabilise the chest
• Thoracic Spine and ribcage protect the heart + lungs

Question 10

Thoracic Vertebrae

Answer 10

Spinal process: Long, straight and narrow

Transverse process: Prominent and project laterally

Superior and Inferior facts: Sets of vertically and point anteriorly (superior) + posteriorly (inferior)
- except the inferior facers of T12 that turns outwards for lumbararticulation

Question 11

Thoracic Vertebra T12

Answer 11

Largest and most inferior of the thoracic vertebrae

Superior facets: straight

Inferior facers: it turn outwards to articulate with lumbar

Single pair of superior costal pits