Vertebral Column: Function, Anatomy, Structure, Topic

What Is the Vertebral Column?

The vertebral column is also known as the spine or backbone of the human body. This column made up of 26 small vertebrae provides support, protection, and flexibility for movement in the adult human body.

What Are Vertebrae?

An adult spine has 26 vertebrae, while the total amount of vertebrae is 33. This is so because the sacral and the coccygeal vertebrae fuse to form one. The vertebral column replaces the notochord from the embryonic stage and makes up the primary structure of the trunk attaching at the base of the skull. Each vertebra has a hollow forming the neural canal through which the spinal cord passes thus protecting it.

Anatomy Of The Vertebral Column

The human spine is divided into five sections, all of which are different in character and functions. These include the following:

Cervical Spine (7 vertebrae)

• The first vertebra, C1 or Atlas, articulates with the skull. This occurs with the 'yes' movement of the head.

• The second vertebra, C2 or Axis, with C1, provides the 'no' movement of the head.

• It supports the weight of the head.

Thoracic Spine (12 Vertebrae)

• Still relatively less mobility, holds up the rib cage, which protects the lungs and heart.

• The thoracic vertebrae articulate with the 12 pairs of ribs.

Lumbar Spine (5 vertebrae)

• Holds the weight of the body.

• These are large, hence one can carry a heavyweight.

Sacral Spine (5 Fused Vertebrae)

• Fused five sacral vertebrae

• Joins the vertebral column to the hip bones and thus forms the pelvic girdle

Coccygeal Spine ( 4 Fused Vertebrae)

• Four coccygeal vertebrae fuse to form the tailbone.

• These supports sitting posture

Structure Of Vertebrae

The structure differs from one region of the vertebra to another. The general or typical vertebra is made up of the following parts:

• Vertebral body

• Vertebral arch

• Vertebral foramen, forming the spinal canal

• Processes: spinous, transverse, and articular

Each of the vertebrae is held together by several ligaments, thus promoting movement and stability. The hollow cavity that is formed by the central portion of every vertebra encloses the spinal cord and thus protects it.

Functions Of The Vertebral Column

The functions of the vertebral column include:

Support

The vertebral column provides for the structural support of the body, thus supporting the head and trunk.

Protection

Protection of the spinal cord and nerves within the vertebral canal.

Movement

Allows flexibility, hence allowing bending and twisting within the range of motion.

Attachment

Muscle and ligament attachments in the human body.

Common Disorders Of Vertebral Column

Damage to any of the vertebrae or their parts can lead to a lot of complications and limitation of movement. The common disorders are

Scoliosis

• Abnormal sideways curvature of the spine

• Appears mostly during childhood or adolescence

• Unevenness in shoulders, waist, and hips

• Serious cases can affect lung and heart

• Treatment includes observation, bracing, surgery

Herniated Disk

• Also called slipped disk or ruptured disk

• When the inner gel of a spinal disk protrudes through a tear in the outer layer

• Nerve compression causing pain, numbness, or weakness

• Common in the lower back but most frequent in the neck

• Treatment includes physical therapy, medication, surgical intervention

Osteoporosis

• Characterised by brittle, porous, and weakened bones

• Common in elderly people, especially postmenopausal women

• Increase risk of fractures from minor falls/ simple actions

• Diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercises, medications for stronger bones

Spinal Stenosis

• Narrowing of spaces within the spine that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves

• Majorly present in the lower back and neck

• Symptoms are pain, numbness, muscle weakness, problems with bladder or bowel control

• Usually caused by age-related changes such as thickened ligaments, bone spurs, or herniated discs

• Treated with physical therapy, medication, or even surgery

Vertebral Column NEET MCQs (With Answers & Explanations)

Important questions asked in NEET from this topic are:

• Anatomy of the vertebral column

• Functions of the vertebral column

Practice Questions for NEET

Q1. In humans, the coccyx, also known as the tailbone, is formed by the fusion of multiple vertebrae. Among the following options, determine the accurate number of vertebrae involved in this fusion:

1. Three vertebrae

2. Four vertebrae

3. Five vertebrae

4. Six vertebrae

Correct answer: 2) Four vertebrae

Explanation:

The coccyx in humans is formed by the fusion of four vertebrae. It is the remnant of a tail that our ancestors had. The fusion of these four small vertebrae creates the triangular-shaped coccyx, located at the bottom of the vertebral column.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2) Four vertebrae

Q2. The cervical vertebra called the axis provides the head with sideways rotation. This can be because

1. It is articulated to skull through occipital condyles

2. It is fused with 1st vertebra atlas

3. It is joined through elastic pads of fibrocartilage with other vertebrae, which provide mobility

4. It contains odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of atlas

Correct answer: 4) It contains odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of atlas

Explanation:

The cervical vertebra called the axis (C2) allows the head to rotate sideways due to the presence of a unique structure called the dens or odontoid process. This peg-like projection extends upward and fits into the vertebra above it, the atlas (C1), forming the atlantoaxial joint.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) It contains an odontoid process that fits into the odontoid canal of the atlas.

Q3. Which knob-like process on the second cervical vertebra in human beings is responsible for rotational movements of the head?

1. Prezygapophysis

2. Postzygapophysis

3. Olecranon process

4. Odontoid process

Correct answer: 4) Odontoid process

Explanation:

The odontoid process is located on the second cervical vertebra and acts as a knob-like projection that enables rotational movements of the head. It serves as a pivotal point for the rotation between the first cervical vertebra (atlas) and the head. Essentially, the odontoid process allows for the turning and twisting motions of the head.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) Odontoid process.

Also Read:

• MCQs on Vertebral Column

• List of the 206 Bones in Our Body

• Ball and Socket Joint

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