There are 33 vertebrae that make up the vertebral column, also known as the spine.
The Importance of Vertebrae
The vertebrae are critical components of the skeletal system. They play a vital role:
- Protecting the Spinal Cord: The vertebrae form a bony shield around the delicate spinal cord, safeguarding it from injury.
- Supporting the Body: They provide the structural framework that supports the weight of the body and enables upright posture.
- Facilitating Movement: The vertebrae allow flexibility and movement, enabling a wide range of motion.
- Protecting Spinal Nerves: They also protect the spinal nerves that branch out from the spinal cord.
Breakdown of the Vertebrae
The 33 vertebrae are divided into different regions:
| Region | Number of Vertebrae |
|---|---|
| Cervical | 7 |
| Thoracic | 12 |
| Lumbar | 5 |
| Sacral | 5 (fused into 1) |
| Coccygeal (Tail) | 4 (fused into 1) |
Understanding Vertebrae
- Each vertebra is a complex bone with several parts such as the vertebral body, vertebral arch, and processes, working in unison to carry out their functions.
- The vertebrae articulate with each other through intervertebral discs, providing cushioning and flexibility.
