Vertebrae and Discs Flashcards
What is the spinal column comprised of?
The spinal column is comprised of individual bones called vertebrae stacked one on top of the other.
What are the bony protrusions on each vertebra called, and what is their function?
The bony protrusions are called processes, and they serve as anchoring points for important muscles and ligaments.
What are the small bumps you feel when you run your finger down your back?
The small bumps are the processes of the vertebrae.
Where are the bodies of the vertebrae located in relation to the back?
The bodies of the vertebrae sit several inches inward from the processes.
What lies between each vertebra, and what is their purpose?
Discs lie between each vertebra, acting as “bone spacers.”
What are the discs between the vertebrae made of?
The outer rings of the discs are made of collagen, the same material that forms ligaments and tendons, and the center contains a gel called the nucleus.
What is the role of the nucleus in each disc?
The nucleus is pressurized, allowing the disc to bend and support weight, similar to how air pressure in a tire supports a car.
Where are the actual joints of the spine located, and what are they called?
The actual joints, called facet joints, are located behind the discs on the side of the spine farthest from the organs.
How many facet joints are there for each disc?
There are two facet joints for every disc.
What is the function of the facet joints?
The facet joints guide the motion of each vertebra as the spine bends, twists, and turns, supporting shear forces and facilitating smooth movement patterns.
