Define Vertebra
The human backbone encloses the vertebral or spinal column and the fluid surrounding it. The backbone is made up of a series of tiny, circular bones called vertebrae. Each vertebra has a hole through which the spinal cord passes as well as several projections for muscle attachment and articulation. The names of the vertebrae, or the human backbone, come from the parts of the vertebral column that they occupy. The names of the bones that make the human spine are as follows:
- Seven cervical vertebrae (C1 to C7)
- Twelve thoracic vertebrae (T1 to T12)
- Five lumbar vertebrae (L1 to L5)
- Sacral vertebrae (S1 to S5 fused)
- Coccyx or tailbone (3 to 4 fused bones)
The human spine comprises 26 stacked backbone structures that make the vertebral column or spinal column.
Types of Vertebrae
The five different types of vertebrae are – cervical, lumbar, thoracic, sacral and coccygeal. Apart from that, each vertebra can be broadly classified into two groups. The two types of vertebrae are:
- Typical Vertebrae
- Atypical Vertebrae
Typical Vertebrae
Typical vertebrae are those whose structures include all the fundamental components. The vertebral body and vertebral arch are their two main components. The vertebral arch also has seven processes, laminae and pedicles. The 7 processes are two transverse processes, two inferior articular processes, two superior articular processes and a spinous process.
Atypical Vertebrae
Atypical vertebrae are those with altered structures as a result of their position and function. The vertebrae C1, C2, C7, L5, T1, and T9 to T12 are atypical in nature. For example, C1 lacks a spinous process.
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