Vertebral Column Flashcards
What are the functions of the spinal column?
- Support and move head
- Transmit &protect spinal cord
- Support thorax and abdomen
- Transmit weight to lower limbs
- Provide framework for lower extremity
What 5 types of vertebrae compose the vertebral column, and how many of each?
- Cervical (7)
- Thoracic (12)
- Lumbar (5)
- Sacral (5)
- Coccygeal (3-4)
Which types of vertebrae are fused together?
Sacral and coccygeal
Which curvatures are considered primary? In which direction do they curve?
- Thoracic and sacral
- Concave anteriorly
- Develops in fetus
Which curvatures are considered secondary? In which direction do they curve?
- Cervical and lumbar
- Develops in infancy, develops more concavity from walking age to adult
- Concave posteriorly
Why do we need these curvartures? Which are the most important?
- Curvatures help to distribute the weight
* Secondary are the most important (lumbar holds the most weight)
T/F :A person who has never walked will eventually develop secondary curvatures.
FALSE
Which abnormal curvature is characterized by an exaggerated thoracic curve?
Thoracic Kyphosis (hunchback deformity)
Which abnormal curvature is characterized by an exaggerated lumbar curve?
Lumbar Lordosis (swayback)
Which abnormal curvature is characterized by lateral curvature?
Scoliosis
Which part of the vertebra does the spinal cord travel through?
Vertebral foramen (canal)
What is the function of the vertebral body?
- Bears the load of the weight of the body
* Resists compressive forces
Which part of the vertebral column can you visually see? (dorsal ‘spike’)
Spinal process
Which portion of the vertebrae sticks out laterally?
Transverse process
Which part of the vertebra is attached to the ribs?
The transverse process in thoracic vertebrae
What two things form the vertebral arch?
Pedicle and Lamina
What parts of the vertebrae come into contact when assembled into the spinal column?
The superior (top) and inferior (bottom) articular facets