What is Vertebrae?
The vertebral or spinal column and the fluid surrounding it are enclosed by the human backbone. The vertebral cord of the human body is made up of 33 bones which are irregular in size and are connected by one other by intervertebral discs. Vertebrae are small, round bones that make up the backbone. Each vertebra has many projections for articulation and muscle attachment, in addition to a hole where the spinal cord passes through. The names of the vertebrae, or the backbone of humans, are derived from the positions they hold within the vertebral column. The following are the names of the bones that comprise the human spine:
- Seven cervical vertebrae (C1 to C7)
- Twelve thoracic vertebrae (T1 to T12)
- Five lumbar vertebrae (L1 to L5)
- Sacral vertebrae (S1 to S5 fused)
- Coccyx or tailbone (3 to 4 fused bones)
Also Read: Human Anatomy
Vertebrae – Bones, Diagram and Features
Vertebrae are a collection of bones which are found in all vertebrate animals. We have intervertebral discs that connect the 33 different-sized bones that make up our spinal column. Lumbar (5), sacral (1-fused), coccygeal (1-fused), cervical (7), and thoracic (12) are the five regions that make up the spinal column.
These 33 bones make up the region where the human cranium ends, and the coccyx begins in this group. The vertebrae provide structural support and protection to the spinal cord and enable flexibility and movement of the spine, allowing for various body motions.
Table of Content
- Definition of vertebrae
- What is Vertebrae?
- Diagram of Vertebrae
- Components of vertebrae
- Types of Vertebrae
- Function of vertebrae