Anatomy
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What is the Vertebral Column?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

The vertebral column is a series of articulated bones known as vertebrae which act as the axis of the body in organisms known as vertebrates. Also known as the spine, the vertebral column is a critical part of the anatomy, serving a number of important functions. In humans, there are some unique features in the vertebral column which are designed to facilitate upright walking. The design of the human pelvis is also very different from that of other animals, reflecting the upright orientation of the body.

Some people are surprised to learn that the number of bones in the vertebral column actually varies, depending on the person. The number is usually between 32 and 34, with several of those bones being fused. The coccyx and sacrum at the base of the vertebral column, for example, are made of groups of bones which have fused together.

An X-ray of the neck, including the cervical vertebrae.
An X-ray of the neck, including the cervical vertebrae.

At the top of the vertebral column, one finds a special vertebra known as the “atlas.” The atlas supports the skull, with the name being a reference to the mythological figure Atlas, who managed to support the weight of the world. Below the atlas, one finds the cervical or neck vertebrae, followed by the thoracic vertebrae in the midback, and the lumbar vertebrae in the lower spine. Between each pair of vertebrae is a thick, tough, slightly giving layer of material called a disc. The discs articulate the joints, allowing for some flexibility, and they also act as shock absorbers for the spine.

The rib cage, with the lower part of the thoracic spine visible at the bottom.
The rib cage, with the lower part of the thoracic spine visible at the bottom.

One important function of the vertebral column is to protect the spinal cord, a key component of the central nervous system. The spinal cord consists of a cluster of nerve fibers wrapped in several layers of tough material which act as a sheath. The vertebrae provide further protection from impact, pinching, and other potential sources of trauma.

In the case of the thoracic vertebrae, the spinal column also provides a point of attachment for bones, specifically the ribs. Together, the thoracic vertebrae, ribs, and sternum create a hard protective case of bone to shelter vital organs. Known as the rib cage, the design shelters the heart and lungs from potential trauma.

Vertebrae and the spinal cord.
Vertebrae and the spinal cord.

A number of medical issues can involve the vertebral column, including fractures, scoliosis, kyphosis, slipped discs, herniated discs, hairline cracks, and degenerative diseases such as arthritis. Treatments for these conditions vary, and can include the use of surgery, medications, and physical therapy.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • An X-ray of the neck, including the cervical vertebrae.
      An X-ray of the neck, including the cervical vertebrae.
    • The rib cage, with the lower part of the thoracic spine visible at the bottom.
      By: Jaeeho
      The rib cage, with the lower part of the thoracic spine visible at the bottom.
    • Vertebrae and the spinal cord.
      By: Alexandr Mitiuc
      Vertebrae and the spinal cord.
    • The tailbone, or coccyx, is the lowest segment of the spinal column.
      By: James Steidl
      The tailbone, or coccyx, is the lowest segment of the spinal column.
    • Scoliosis is a disorder characterized by the lateral or side bending of the vertebral column.
      By: laurent dambies
      Scoliosis is a disorder characterized by the lateral or side bending of the vertebral column.
    • Slipped or herniated discs are two conditions that involve the vertebral column.
      By: rob3000
      Slipped or herniated discs are two conditions that involve the vertebral column.
    • The vertebral column protects the spinal cord and facilitates upright walking in humans.
      By: CLIPAREA.com
      The vertebral column protects the spinal cord and facilitates upright walking in humans.