Vertebral Column Anatomy and Function

How many cervical vertebrae are found in the vertebral column?

What is the primary function of the vertebral column?

Which vertebrae are classified as the cervical vertebrae?

What anatomical feature allows the cervical vertebrae to protect the vertebral artery?

How many bones are present in the sacrum?

Vertebral Column Overview

Composed of 33 bones categorized as follows:
- Cervical: 7 vertebrae (C1-C7)
- Thoracic: 12 vertebrae
- Lumbar: 5 vertebrae
- Sacrum: 5 fused bones
- Coccyx: 4 fused bones

Functions of the Vertebral Column

Protection of the Spinal Cord:
- Each vertebra has a vertebral foramen, which collectively forms a canal that houses the spinal cord.
Intervertebral Foramen:
- Protect spinal nerves as they exit the spinal cord through these openings.

Cervical Vertebrae

Located in the neck region, consisting of seven vertebrae.
Positioned between the base of the skull and thoracic vertebrae.
Atlas (C1):
- First cervical vertebra, supports the skull.
Axis (C2):
- Second cervical vertebra, allows rotation of the head.
Both atlas and axis have unique structural features, including:
- Two anterior and posterior arches
- Two lateral masses

Transverse Foramen

Found in cervical vertebrae, allows passage for the vertebral artery.
Contributes to the vascularization of the brain through the cervical spine.

Explore the structure and functions of the vertebral column in this quiz. Learn about the cervical, thoracic, lumbar regions, as well as the sacrum and coccyx, and their roles in protecting the spinal cord and nerves. Test your knowledge of vertebrae and their characteristics.