The Vertebral Column - The Spine
May 18th 2006 00:52
Body Part of the Day The Spine
The vertebral column, otherwise known as the spine or backbone, is the central axis for the skeleton of vertebrates (organisms with backbones). It extends from the base of the skull to slightly past the end of the pelvis. It consists of 26 individual bones, grouped into 4 region of curvatures: cervical (meaning neck), thoracic, lumbar and pelvic (which includes sacral and coccygeal - from coccyx, the tailbone).
The vertebral column performs five major functions: it supports the head and trunk; protects the spinal cord (which contains nerves); provides a site for muscle attachment and permits movement of the head and trunk.
Kyphosis (meaning hunchback) is characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine, mostly in the upper thoracic region. Lordosis is the opposite, where lumbar region curves incorrectly. Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
The vertebral column, otherwise known as the spine or backbone, is the central axis for the skeleton of vertebrates (organisms with backbones). It extends from the base of the skull to slightly past the end of the pelvis. It consists of 26 individual bones, grouped into 4 region of curvatures: cervical (meaning neck), thoracic, lumbar and pelvic (which includes sacral and coccygeal - from coccyx, the tailbone).
The 4 regions of the Vertebral Column
Kyphosis (meaning hunchback) is characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine, mostly in the upper thoracic region. Lordosis is the opposite, where lumbar region curves incorrectly. Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
| 87 |
| Vote |
Add To: 
subscribe to this blog
