Vertebral Column

Gross Anatomy

• Functions
• Sigmoid Shape
• Forms Central Axis
• Forms skeleton of neck - Cervical region prone to herniation.
• 70-75cm, 1m (IV discs included)
• n = 33 (7, 12, 5, 5, 4)
• Joints between, and ligaments
  • Flexible and Strong
• Movements

Presentation in Life Span

• Adult & Foetus Lateral Image
• Kyphosis: Abnormal increase in Thoracic Curvature. More pronounced in old age
  • Reduces height. Increases C shape sharpness, Cervical curvature decreases
• Line of Centre of Gravity passes through Curvatures

Presentation

• 24 Discrete, 9 Fused = 33 Total
  • 7 Cervical
  • 12 Thoracic
  • 5 Lumbar
  • 5 Sacral
  • 4 Coccygeal
• Discrete vertebrae can move independently, Possess intervertebral foramina.
  • Fused instead possess Ant/Post. Sacral Foramina
• Typical Discrete Vertebrae features
• Cervical
• Thoracic
• Lumbar
• Sacral
• Coccyx

Intervertebral Joints

• Intervertebral Discs - SYMPHYSIS (Secondary Cartilaginous)

• Zygapophyseal SYNOVIAL Plane

• Lumbosacral

• Sacro-Iliac

• Uncovertebral - SYNOVIAL

  • Typical Cervical Vertebra: Uncinate Process → Body Superior

Surface Anatomy

• NO Lateral Curves
• Sagittal Plane Curvature
  • Foetal: Thoracic & Sacral Primary Curvatures - C Shape
    • Concave Anteriorly
  • Cervical & Lumbar Secondary Curvatures - Produce Sinusoidal Shape
    • Convex Anteriorly
    • Development