Human Anatomy: Vertebral Column and Spinal Cord

The vertebral column, made up of stacked vertebrae, is the central axis of the musculoskeletal system. It connects the skull to the pelvis and provides support for the body.

The space within the vertebral column that encloses and protects the spinal cord.

The junction where two or more bones meet, allowing for movement. In the vertebral column, joints facilitate movement between vertebrae.

The primary curvature of the spine, present at birth, includes the thoracic and sacral curves. They are concave anteriorly, forming a gentle C-shape.

The secondary curvature of the spine, developing after birth, includes the cervical and lumbar curves. They are concave posteriorly, forming a gentle S-shape.

The bony projection that extends posteriorly from the vertebral arch. It is a characteristic feature of vertebrae.

The primary body of the vertebrae, located anteriorly. It is the weight-bearing portion and increases in size as you move down the vertebral column.

The bony arch that surrounds the vertebral foramen, protecting the spinal cord. It is formed by the laminae, pedicles, and transverse processes.

The first cervical vertebra (C1), known for its ring-like shape and lack of a vertebral body, allowing for the skull to sit on top.

The second cervical vertebra (C2), known for its strong structure and the presence of the odontoid process (dens), which allows for rotation of the head.

The articulation between the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2) that allows for head rotation. The dens of the axis articulates with the anterior arch of the atlas.

A specialized articulation between vertebrae that allows for limited movement, typically found in the spine to provide stability and support.

The tough outer layer of an intervertebral disc, composed of fibrous cartilage, which helps to contain the inner nucleus pulposus.

The soft, jelly-like center of an intervertebral disc, providing cushioning between vertebrae.

A condition that occurs when the nucleus pulposus pushes through the annulus fibrosis, causing pain and potential nerve compression.

The group of veins that drain blood from within the vertebral canal, including the epidural space and surrounding structures.

A unique characteristic of the internal vertebral venous plexus; these veins lack valves, meaning blood can flow in both directions.

The outer layer of connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles.

Muscles that act primarily on the vertebral column, responsible for movements like extension, flexion, and rotation.

Muscles that have their origin outside the vertebral column and insert on the upper limbs, scapula, or ribs.

A condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often affecting the thoracic and lumbar regions.

A condition where the nucleus pulposus pushes out of the annulus fibrosis, often compressing nerve roots and causing radiating pain.

The spinal nerve root that exits between the L4 and L5 vertebrae. This root is often affected by L4/L5 disc herniations.

The muscle responsible for bringing the scapula closer to the spine.

The muscle that elevates the scapula, or shoulder blade.

The muscle that depresses the scapula, or shoulder blade.

Powerful muscles responsible for retracting the scapula.

The muscle that elevates the ribs during inspiration.

The muscle that depresses the ribs during exhalation.

A large muscle that extends, internally rotates, and adducts the arm.

A group of muscles that extend the vertebral column.

The nerve that supplies the rhomboid major and minor muscles.

A triangular space in the neck containing important structures like the vertebral artery and nerve.

The large depression on the anterior surface of the scapula.

The notch on the superior border of the scapula, where the suprascapular nerve and vessels pass.

The joint formed by the articulation of the glenoid fossa of the scapula and the head of the humerus.

A groove on the humerus that separates the greater and lesser tubercles.

A common site of fracture in the humerus.

A space between the dura mater and arachnoid mater, potentially filled with fluid during an infection.

The outermost layer of the meninges, a tough and fibrous membrane that surrounds the spinal cord and brain.

Containing both sensory and motor information, it is a mixed nerve responsible for connecting the CNS to muscles and receptors.

The region where the spinal nerves from the lumbar and sacral regions emerge from the spinal cord, forming a 'horse's tail' appearance.

The innermost layer of the meninges, directly adhering to the surface of the brain and spinal cord.

A space between the arachnoid mater and pia mater, filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

The portion of a spinal nerve that emerges from the spinal cord and carries sensory information to the CNS.

The portion of a spinal nerve that emerges from the spinal cord and carries motor commands from the CNS to muscles.

A condition where a portion of an intervertebral disc protrudes, compressing nearby spinal nerves and causing pain, numbness, and weakness.

The spinal nerve root that innervates the skin of a specific body region.

A condition where the vertebral arch fails to fully fuse, typically with no visible external signs.

A type of back pain that radiates down the leg, often associated with a herniated disc in the lumbar region.

The backward bending or extension of the spine, specifically in the cervical region.

A condition causing a 'winged' appearance of the scapula due to weakness of the serratus anterior muscle. This muscle is responsible for anchoring the scapula to the rib cage.

The nerve that supplies the latissimus dorsi. Damage to this nerve affects many arm movements such as elevation, medial rotation, and adduction at the shoulder.

A condition where one vertebra slips forward onto the one below it, often between L4 and L5. This can cause pain and instability in the lower back.

Inflammation of the spine. This can cause stiffness and pain, and can sometimes lead to fusion of the vertebrae.

A fracture of the L5-S1 vertebrae, often caused by repetitive activities like jumping. It causes unilateral lower back pain.

An exaggerated outward curve of the spine in the lumbar region.

An exaggerated inward curve of the spine in the thoracic and sacral regions.

An abnormal fusion of two or more cervical vertebrae, leading to neck shortening and limited movement.

The point where the lumbar region connects to the sacrum. It plays a key role in transferring weight from the spine to the pelvis.