Lumbar vertebrae
Lumbar Vertebrae
The Lumbar Vertebrae (pronounced: LUM-bar ver-teh-brey) are the five vertebrae situated between the thoracic vertebrae and the sacral vertebrae in the spinal column. They are the largest segments of the vertebral column and are characterized by the absence of the foramen transversarium within the vertebra and by the absence of facets on the sides of the body.
Etymology
The term "lumbar" is derived from the Latin word "lumbus," meaning loin, and the term "vertebra" is derived from the Latin word "vertere," meaning to turn.
Anatomy
Each lumbar vertebra consists of a large, thick, oval-shaped body (anterior part) and a vertebral arch (posterior part). The body is much larger in the lumbar vertebrae than in the other vertebrae to carry more weight. The vertebral arch, formed by two pedicles and two laminae, encloses the vertebral foramen (opening) and provides exit points for the spinal nerves.
Related Terms
- Vertebral Column: The vertebral column, also known as the backbone or spine, is a column of 33 small bones, or vertebrae, that support the entire upper body.
- Thoracic Vertebrae: The twelve thoracic vertebrae are located in the chest area and have ribs attached.
- Sacral Vertebrae: The five sacral vertebrae are fused together to form the sacrum, a shield-shaped bony structure located at the base of the lumbar vertebrae and connected to the pelvis.
- Spinal Nerves: Spinal nerves are the nerves that emerge from the spinal cord and go to the rest of the body.
- Foramen Transversarium: The foramen transversarium is a hole through which the vertebral artery travels.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lumbar vertebrae
- Wikipedia's article - Lumbar vertebrae
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