Ligaments

Question 1

Components of the intervertebral discs -

Answer 1

Three distinct components - a central nucleus pulposus, absorbs compression forces
A peripheral annulus fibrosus - collagen, arranged in laminate configuration, limits rotation
Two vertebral endplates (sup and inf)

Question 2

Intervertebral disc, which bit is subject to degenerative changes?

Answer 2

Peripheral annulus fibrosus - herniation - can impinge nerves, therefore causing back and leg potential symptoms

Question 3

Ligaments
Anterior longitudinal ligament -
Posterior longitudinal ligament -

Answer 3

Long ligaments that run the length of the vertebral column, covering the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs

Anterior - very strong ligament! Limits extension
Posterior - limits flexion

Question 4

Ligaments
Ligamentum flavum -

Answer 4

Short but thick ligament that connects the laminae of adjacent vertebrae from C2 to S1
In the neck, ligaments are thin, but broad and long.
In thoracic, they are thicker, but thickest in the lumbar region

Mainly helps limit flexion of lumbar spine

Question 5

Ligaments
Supraspinous ligament -

Answer 5

Origin - originates from C7
Insertion - sacrum
Limits flexion

Question 6

Ligaments
Interspinous ligament -

Answer 6

Anteriorly, its fibres connect with ligamentum flavum, whilst posterity its fibres connect with supraspinous ligament

Thoracic - narrow and elongated
Lumbar - broader, thicker and quadrilateral
Only slightly developed in the neck
In the neck they are often considered part of the nuchal ligament
Limits flexion

Question 7

Ligaments
Inter transverse ligament -

Answer 7

Ligaments that are placed between the transverse processes of the spine
Cervical - few, irregular scattered fibres that are often replaced by muscles
Thoracic - rounded cords intimately connected with the deep muscles of the back
Lumbar - thin and membranous

The inter transverse ligaments often blend with intertransverse muscles, therefore small

Limits - lateral flexion of the spine