ANP 1106 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Lumbar Vertebrae, Thoracic Vertebrae, Intervertebral Foramina

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Anatomy and Physiology
• Course: ANP 1106
• Professor: Jackie Carnegie

Document Summary

Skeletal system human skeleton pt. 1 (axial skeleton) Vertebral column extend from the skull to the pelvis; consists of 26 irregular bones (vertebrae) connected to make a flexible and curved structure. 3 main functions: weight-bearing, anchor for muscles and ligaments, protection of spinal cord. 5 major regions: 7 cervical vertebrae vertebrae of neck; 12 thoracic vertebrae vertebrae of thoracic cage; 5 lumbar vertebrae vertebrae of lower back; sacrum inferior to lumbar vertebrae; coccyx terminus of vertebral column. Curvatures 4 main curves in the column help to increase resilience and flexibility of spine. Two posteriorly concave curvatures (cervical and lumbar); achieved from learning to lift and support the body. Scoliosis abnormal lateral curve, most often in thoracic spine. Severe: lower limbs unequal length, muscle paralysis, breathing difficulties: kyphosis (hunchback) exaggerated thoracic curvature. Commo in elderly b/c osteoporosis, reflect tuberculosis of spine, rickets. Temporary in ppl carrying large load in front i. e obese/pregnant.