My "Basic Anatomy of the Skeletal System" class notes provide a comprehensive and concise overview of the skeletal system, essential for medical students. These notes cover the structure, function, and pathology of bones and joints, presented in an easy-to-understand, bookish language that simplifi...
VERTEBRAL COLUMN
Definition
“The vertebral column, also known as the spine or backbone, is a crucial anatomical structure in
vertebrate animals, including humans. It consists of a series of individual bones called vertebrae,
stacked on top of each other in a flexible and curved arrangement”
Location: Upon touching the back, one can the bumps all the way down the mid-line. These are
the spinous processes depending on where one is, in terms of the vertebral column, some are
quite extensive whereas some are quite short
➔ The vertebral column extends along the midline of the back from the base of the skull to
the pelvis. It is situated posteriorly (behind) to the thoracic cavity and anteriorly (in front
of) the spinal cord. Specifically, it lies within the vertebral canal, formed by the vertebral
foramina of each vertebra stacked together.
➔ This positioning places the vertebral column centrally within the axial skeleton, providing
crucial support for the body's weight and protecting the spinal cord, which serves as a
vital conduit for neural signals between the brain and the rest of the body
Functions: Are as follows:
1. it provides structural support for the body
2. Protects the delicate spinal cord that runs through its central canal
3. Allows for movement and flexibility, crucial for various activities such as bending,
twisting, and bearing weight
4. Each vertebra is separated by intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers and
facilitate movement while preventing the bones from grinding against each other
Spinous processes (some short and some long) Sacrum
, Five main categories of the vertebral column: Are as follows:
Description Cervical Thoracic Lumbar Sacral Coccygeal
Location Neck Upper and lower back below Triangular structure Triangular structure at the
region mid-back T12 forming the back base of the vertebral column
region portion of the pelvis and remnant or vestige of the
tail
Number C1-C7 T1 to T12 L1 to L5 Fused S1 to S5 Fused Co1 to Co4, although
vertebrae the number can vary
Function Mobility Larger than Largest & strongest Connects the spine Serves as an attachment
and cervical vertebrae to the hip bones point for muscles, ligaments,
support of vertebrae Supports the upper (ilia) via the and tendons, supporting
neck due and body and provides sacroiliac joints. It pelvic floor muscles and
to small articulate flexibility for provides stability contributing to sitting
size with the ribs, bending and and support for the stability. While it has minimal
forming the twisting motions. pelvic girdle and mobility and function in
thoracic Have intervertebral transfers weight humans, it plays a role in
cage. Stability joints in from the spine to weight-bearing when sitting
and support between, allowing the lower limbs and helps distribute body
of the for lateral during weight- weight evenly
ribcage. flexion, extension a bearing activities
mobility is little bit of like standing and
limited hyperextension walking.
compared to
cervical
vertebra
Curvatures of vertebrae: The spine exhibits natural curves that contribute to its strength,
flexibility, and ability to absorb shock. There are normal curvature in a vertebral column. They
are also be pathological leading to extended or accentuated spine, i-e. Kyphosis but there're
four main curvatures
➔ Two primary curvatures, which are thoracic and sacral vertebrae. So, these will occur in
utero
➔ Secondary curvatures associated with cervical vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae
Why these would be lumbar and sacral curvatures considered secondary curvatures as
opposed to primary? The lumbar and sacral curvatures of the spine are classified as secondary
because they develop after birth, in response to changes in posture and locomotion. The lumbar
curvature forms as children begin to stand and walk, providing stability and supporting the
body's weight. Similarly, the sacral curvature adapts to the pelvic shape to aid in weight transfer
and stability during bipedal movement. In contrast, primary curvatures like the cervical and
thoracic curves are present at birth and play essential roles in early development, such as head
support and protection of internal organs. Thus, the secondary curvatures reflect adaptations
necessary for upright posture and mobility acquired after birth
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