Anatomy of the Spine - Vertebrae

Anatomy of the Spine - Vertebrae: Overview

DISC

Discs separate vertebrae, They are made of tough, elastic material that allows the spine to bend and twist naturally.

VERTEBRA BODY

The cylinder-shaped vertebra body is the weight-bearing structure of the vertebra.

PEDICLE

Pedicles connect the lamina to the vertebra body

LAMINA

The flat plates of the lamina create the outer wall of the vertebral canal and help protect the spinal cord.

SPINEOUS PROCESS

The spineous process protrudes from the back of each vertebra. Muscles and ligaments that move and stabilise the vertebrae attach to the spineous processes.

TRANSVERSE PROCESS

Two transverse processes stick out of the sides of each vertebra. Muscles and ligaments that move and stabilise the vertebrae attach to the transverse processes.

VERTEBRAL CANAL

The spinal cord sits in the channel formed by the lamina and the vertebra body.

SPINAL CORD

The spinal cord contains nerve pathways that carry signals, such as pain, from the arms, legs and the body to the brain.

NERVE ROOT

Nerve roots are used to transmit information between the spinal cord and other parts of the body, such as arms, legs and organs.