Vertebrae

The vertebrae are irregular bones in the spinal or vertebral column. It is the defining characteristic in all vertebrae animals.

Anatomy of the Vertebrae

The spine is made up of 33 vertebrae. Each vertebra has a hole in the middle through which the spinal cord runs. A typical vertebra consists of two parts, the front segment and the posterior part which encloses the vertebral foramen.

When the vertebrae are articulated with each other, they form a strong pillar for the support of the head and trunk and form a canal for the protection of the spinal cord.

There are five main regions of the vertebrae;

• Cervical - They are small and delicate and numbered from C1-C2. They allow for the movement of the head and neck. They allow vertebral arteries to pass through.
• Thoracic - Though some rotation can occur between the thoracic vertebrae, their connection to the rib cage prevents much movement. They are heart shaped.
• Lumbar - They are robust in construction as they support more weight than other vertebrae. They allow significant flexibility and extension as well as moderate side bending and a small degree of rotation.
• Sacral - These are five vertebrae that are fused in maturity with no intervertebral discs.
• Coccygeal - These are 3-5 vertebrae and are also known as caudal vertebrae.

Between each vertebra is a soft, gel-like cushion called a disc. The disc helps absorb pressure and keeps the bones from rubbing against each other.

Each vertebra is held to the others by groups of ligaments. Ligaments connect bones to bones. There are also tendons in the spine, which connect muscles to the vertebrae.

Like other parts of the body such as the knee or elbow, the spinal column also has joints. Spinal column joints are called facet joints. Facet joints link the vertebrae together and give them the flexibility to move against each other.
Functions of Vertebrae

The vertebra protects the spinal chord, provides support to the body as a whole, and serves as a place to which the pectoral and pelvic girdles as well as many muscles attach.

It provides the mechanical structure for the body while enabling movement. The spinal cord or the central nervous system passes through it and is protected by the vertebrae.

Common Conditions of the Vertebrae

Since the spinal cord is located in the vertebrae, it is very important to note any discomfort in the vertebrae. Some of the common conditions include:

• Spinal fracture,
• Osteoporosis,
• Disk prolapse,
• Crush fracture,
• Rib fractures and
• Spinal injury due to trauma

Miracles for Men recommend immediate medical attention in cases where you think there is spinal injury. Good body posture is also essential to keep your vertebrae strong over a long period of time.

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