In the thoracic vertebrae, the transverse processes articulate with the ribs. Transverse processes - each vertebra has two transverse processes, which extend laterally and posteriorly from the vertebral body.Spinous processes - each vertebra has a single spinous process, centred posteriorly at the point of the arch.The foramina of all the vertebrae line up to form the vertebral canal, which encloses the spinal cord. In combination with the vertebral body, the vertebral arch forms an enclosed hole - the vertebral foramen. Fig 2 - The general structure of a vertebrae. Intertransverse ligaments – extends between transverse processes.The interspinous ligaments attach between processes, and the supraspinous ligaments attach to the tips. Interspinous and s upraspinous – join the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae.Ligamentum flavum – extends between lamina of adjacent vertebrae.They are strengthened by several ligaments: The joints between the articular facets, called facet joints, allow for some gliding motions between the vertebrae. The posterior longitudinal ligament is weaker and prevents hyperflexion. The anterior longitudinal ligament is thick and prevents hyperextension of the vertebral column.
Spine vertebrae full#
Two ligaments strengthen the vertebral body joints: the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, which run the full length of the vertebral column. The articular surfaces are covered by hyaline cartilage, and are connected by the intervertebral disc. The vertebral body joints are cartilaginous joints, designed for weight-bearing.
They are structurally specialised to support the weight of the torso. There are five lumbar vertebrae in most humans, which are the largest in the vertebral column. The articular processes are located at the intersection of the laminae and pedicles.įig 6 – Lateral view of a thoracic vertebrae. Articular processes – form joints between one vertebra and its superior and inferior counterparts.Lamina – connect the transverse and spinous processes.Pedicles – connect the vertebral body to the transverse processes.Transverse processes – each vertebra has two transverse processes, which extend laterally and posteriorly from the vertebral body.Spinous processes – each vertebra has a single spinous process, centred posteriorly at the point of the arch.The vertebral arches have several bony prominences, which act as attachment sites for muscles and ligaments: In combination with the vertebral body, the vertebral arch forms an enclosed hole – the vertebral foramen. The vertebral arch forms the lateral and posterior aspect of each vertebrae. Fig 2 – The general structure of a vertebrae.