Vertebral ligaments

Question 0

what are characteristics and fx of the posterior longitudinal ligmant

Answer 0

extends from C2 to Sacrum (tectorial membrane above C2)
thin and weak
prevents hyperflexion of the spine

Question 1

what are the charecteristics and fx of the anterior longitudinal ligament

Answer 1

extends from Sacrum to Occiput
thicker and stronger than PLL
prevents hyperextension

Question 2

what are the characteristics and fx of the supraspinous ligament

Answer 2

connects the tips of the spinous processes
prevents hyperflexion
continues as nuchal lig beyond C7

Question 3

what are the characteristics and fx of the interspinous ligament

Answer 3

runs between spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae

prevents post. translation and limits flexion

Question 4

ligamentum flavum

Answer 4

extends from the laminae of adjacent vertebrae

elastic limiting flexion and preventing buckling in extension

Question 5

what are the characteristics and fx of intertransverse ligament

Answer 5

between adjacent TVP’s

limits lateral bending

Question 6

what are the characteristics and fx of Alar ligament (check lig)

Answer 6

originates from post. and lat. aspect of dens, inserts on medial aspect of occipital condyle
limits axial rotation

Question 7

what are the characteristics and fx of the apical ligament

Answer 7

apex of the dens –> ant. aspect of foramen magnum

limit flexion and extension of C2

Question 8

what are the characteristics and fx of the Cruciate ligament

Answer 8

composed of the superior longitudinal ligament and inferior longitudinal ligament as well as transverse ligament
transverse runs from medial tubercle on one lateral mass to the other side
the sup. longitudinal runs from ant. lip of foramen magnum to middle of transverse lig.
the inf. longitudinal runs from the middle of transverse lig to body of C2
the whole Cruciate ligament limits lateral translation