Functions of the Vertebral or Spinal Column Include: The Sacrum is located behind the pelvis. A number of small ligaments also support the costovertebral joints: Kyphosis is an excessive curvature of the thoracic spine, causing the back to appear “hunched”. The spinal column formed by the thoracic vertebrae protrudes posteriorly … As part of the bony thorax, the thoracic vertebrae help protect the internal viscera – such as the heart, lungs and oesophagus. The atlas is a ring of bone made up of two lateral masses joined at the front and back by the anterior arch and the posterior arch. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. It is one of the three major sections of the spinal column. Get help! 1-Vertebral Body 2-Spinous Process 3-Transverse Facet The intervertebral foramen (neural passageways) are relatively large but nerve root compression is more common than in the thoracic spine. They are called this because they…. The pedicles are longer and wider than those in the thoracic spine. IL, These vertebrae form the foundation of the thoracic region’s sturdy spinal column that supports the neck above, the rib cage, soft tissues, flexible joints, blood vessels, and nerves. Along with the sternum and ribs, the thoracic spine forms part of the thoracic cage. 12. 520 Lake Cook Road, Suite 350, Cookies help us deliver the best experience to all our users. A thoracic vertebra can contribute to upper back pain in different ways, such as: A severe thoracic scoliosis curve may cause back muscles to become more prone to painful spasms.Read Scoliosis Symptoms. It is also referred to as the ‘dens’ (Latin for ‘tooth’) or odontoid process. The information is produced and reviewed by over 200 medical professionals with the goal of providing trusted, uniquely informative information for people with painful health conditions. © Veritas Health, LLC, For each rib, there are two separate articulations – costovertebral and costotransverse. If looking at the slope of a back, the thoracic would be situated between the neck and the small arch of the back. The ribs restrict the movement of the thoracic spine somewhat. Use the information in this article to help you with the answers. This article discusses how the thoracic spine functions and how spinal anatomy can factor into thoracic spine pain, stiffness, and some types of chest, arm, and/or abdominal pain. 520 Lake Cook Road, Suite 350, The thoracic spine is unique due to its articulation with ribs via costal facets. The Axis is the second cervical vertebra or C2. The superior facet articulates with the head of the adjacent rib, and the inferior facet articulates with the head of the rib below. Quiz – Thoracic Vertebrae Anatomy T2 to T9. They are characterized by small pedicles, long spinous processes, and relatively large intervertebral foramen (neural passageways), which result in less incidence of nerve compression. radius. Upper back pain is typically due to one of the following: Many other possible causes of upper back pain exist, such as a thoracic herniated disc, various types of arthritis, and osteoporosis (vertebral compression fractures). One of us! In addition to being connected to adjacent vertebrae, the thoracic vertebrae are also connected to ribs. Today's Rank--0. These vertebrae bear much of the body's weight and related biomechanical stress. What is the name of the structure labeled "8"? © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Anatomically, the T8 is also at the same level as the xiphoid process, which is a small projection located in the lower part of the sternum, or breastbone. The spinal process is perhaps the most prominent, jutting out like a wing. These two costal demifacets combine to form a full costal facet for the rib head to articulate between the vertebrae. Several muscles that are connected to vertebrae via ligaments, or flexible bands of fibrous tissue, move the spine. There are two types of joints present throughout the vertebral column: Fig 1.2 – Articulations between a rib and its numerically corresponding vertebrae. version.2020.05.028-2020.05.006, Ask questions and share your experiences in our new, Thoracic Spine Anatomy and Upper Back Pain, When Back Pain Is a Spine Compression Fracture, Cervical Bone Spurs Symptoms and Causes Animation, Lower Back Pain Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment, Sciatica Exercises for Sciatica Pain Relief.