II. The Vertebral Column (pp. 218–224; Figs. 7.16–7.22; Table 7.2)
A. General Characteristics (pp. 218–220; Figs. 7.16–7.18)
1. The vertebral column consists of 26 irregular bones, forming a flexible, curved struc-
ture extending from the skull to the pelvis that surrounds and protects the spinal cord
and provides attachment for ribs and muscles of the neck and back.
2. Divisions and Curvatures
a. The vertebrae of the spine fall in five major divisions: seven cervical, twelve
3. The major supporting ligaments of the spine are the anterior and posterior longitudinal
ligaments, which run as continuous bands down the front and back surfaces of the
spine, supporting the spine and preventing hyperflexion and hyperextension.
B. General Structure of Vertebrae (pp. 220–221; Fig. 7.19)
1. Each vertebra consists of an anterior body and a posterior vertebral arch that, together
with the body, form the vertebral foramen through which the spinal cord passes.
C. Regional Vertebral Characteristics (pp. 221–224; Figs. 7.20–7.22; Table 7.2)
1. Cervical vertebrae are the smallest vertebrae, typically having an oval body, a short,
bifid spinous process, a large triangular vertebral foramen, and a transverse foramen.
2. Thoracic vertebrae all articulate with ribs and gradually transition between cervical
structure at the top, and lumbar structure toward the bottom.
a. Thoracic vertebrae have a roughly heart-shaped body, which bear two facets on
each side for rib articulation: a circular vertebral foramen and superior and inferior
articular processes.
3. Lumbar vertebrae are large vertebrae that have kidney-shaped bodies, a triangular