Thoracic spine
Thoracic Spine
The Thoracic Spine (pronunciation: tho-RAS-ik SPINE) is the central part of the spine, also known as the dorsal spine.
Etymology
The term "thoracic" comes from the Greek word "thorax", meaning chest. The term "spine" is derived from the Latin word "spina", meaning thorn or backbone.
Definition
The thoracic spine is the middle section of the vertebral column located between the cervical spine at the top and the lumbar spine at the bottom. It consists of twelve vertebrae, labeled T1 through T12, which are larger than the cervical vertebrae and have a different structure to support the rib cage and protect the heart and lungs.
Related Terms
- Vertebrae: The individual bones that stack to make the spine.
- Cervical Spine: The uppermost part of the spine, located in the neck.
- Lumbar Spine: The lower part of the spine, located in the lower back.
- Intervertebral Discs: The cushions located between the vertebrae.
- Spinal Cord: The bundle of nerves that runs down the center of the spine.
- Rib Cage: The structure of bones that surrounds and protects the heart and lungs.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thoracic spine
- Wikipedia's article - Thoracic spine
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