VERTEBRAL COLUMN ANATOMY (1/2)

Summary

This video explains the anatomy and function of the human spine, also known as the vertebral column. It details the 33 vertebrae, divided into five groups: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccyx. Each group has specific functions, such as supporting the head, protecting vital organs, and bearing the body's weight. The video also covers vertebral structures like intervertebral discs, facet joints, and the unique role of C1 and C2 vertebrae in head movement. Additionally, it touches on how the spine changes with age and the role of proteoglycans in disc hydration.

Takeaways

• 🦴 The spine, also known as the vertebral column or backbone, consists of 33 bones called vertebrae.
• 🧩 Vertebrae are divided into five groups: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccyx, each with unique functions.
• 🦠 The cervical vertebrae (C1-C7) support the neck and head, with C1 (Atlas) and C2 (Axis) allowing for head movement.
• 💪 The thoracic vertebrae (T1-T12) support the ribcage and protect vital organs like the heart and lungs.
• 📦 The lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) bear the body's weight, especially during lifting, due to their larger size.
• 🔗 The sacral vertebrae (S1-S5) are fused and connect the spine to the hip bones, forming the pelvic girdle.
• 🐾 The coccyx, or tailbone, is made up of four fused bones and provides attachment for ligaments and pelvic muscles.
• 🧠 A vertebra consists of three parts: the body, vertebral arch, and processes, which help with weight-bearing and movement.
• 🔄 Intervertebral discs cushion between vertebrae, consisting of an annulus and nucleus to absorb shock and distribute pressure.
• ⏳ As we age, intervertebral discs lose fluid and elasticity, which can lead to height loss and increased brittleness.

Q & A

What is the primary function of the vertebral column?

The vertebral column, or spine, provides support to the body and protects the spinal cord from injury.

How many vertebrae are there in the human spine, and how are they grouped?

The human spine has 33 vertebrae, divided into five groups: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral (fused), and the coccyx (made up of 4 fused bones).

What is the function of the cervical vertebrae?

The cervical vertebrae support the head and allow for a wide range of motion, including nodding and shaking the head.

Why are C1 and C2 vertebrae special compared to other cervical vertebrae?

C1, called the Atlas, allows the head to nod, while C2, called the Axis, serves as the pivot point for head rotation, enabling the head to shake side to side.

What role do the thoracic vertebrae play in the body?

The thoracic vertebrae hold the ribcage in place and protect vital organs like the heart and lungs. They allow for limited motion.

What is the primary function of the lumbar vertebrae?

The lumbar vertebrae bear the weight of the upper body and are larger to support the stress of activities like lifting heavy objects.

How do the sacral vertebrae contribute to the skeletal structure?

The sacral vertebrae connect the spine to the hip bones and, together with the hip bones, form the pelvic girdle.

What is the coccyx and what is its function?

The coccyx, or tailbone, is made up of four fused bones and provides attachment points for ligaments and muscles of the pelvic floor.

What are the three main parts of a vertebra?

A vertebra consists of three parts: the body (bears weight), the vertebral arch (houses the spinal cord), and the processes (allow for muscle attachment).

What is the role of intervertebral discs, and how do they function?

Intervertebral discs cushion the vertebrae and prevent them from rubbing together. The nucleus inside each disc distributes pressure evenly and absorbs fluid when at rest, but loses fluid under pressure during the day.