Vertebral Column: Function, Anatomy, Structure, Topic

What Is 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 Is 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.

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This Story also Contains

1. What Is Vertebral Column?
2. What Is vertebrae?
3. Anatomy Of The Spine Or Vertebral Column
4. Structure Of Vertebrae
5. Functions Of The Vertebral Column
6. Common Disorders Of Vertebral Column
7. Recommended video for Vertebral Column

Anatomy Of The Spine Or 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.

Diagram: Anatomy Of The Spine

Lumbar Spine 5 vertebrae

• Holds the weight of the body.

• These are large, hence one can carry 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)

• The four coccygeal vertebrae fuse to form the tailbone

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:

• Body

• Vertebral arch

• Processes: spinous, transverse, and articular

• Vertebral foramen, forming the spinal canal

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 bend of the spine

• Appears mostly during childhood or adolescence

• Includes unevenness in shoulders, waist, and hips

• Discomfort may appear; can progress to pain

• Serious cases: affect on lung and heart activity

• Treatment: 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: physical therapy, medication, surgical intervention

Osteoporosis

• A disease characterised by brittle, porous, and weakened bones

• Among common diseases in elderly people, especially postmenopausal women

• Increases risk of fractures from minor falls/ simple actions

• Preventive and treatment measures: 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: 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

Conclusion

The vertebral column performs the very essential functions of support, protection, and flexibility in the human body. Knowledge regarding anatomy and functions is quite important in keeping the spine healthy and curing associated disorders.

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