The thoracic vertebrae are a group of twelve vertebrae located in the upper part of the spine, between the cervical vertebrae in the neck and the lumbar vertebrae in the lower back. These vertebrae form a critical part of the human skeleton, providing support and stability for the body while also allowing for a range of movements.
One of the key features of the thoracic vertebrae is their connection to the ribcage. Each thoracic vertebra has a pair of ribs attached to it, with the first rib attaching to the first thoracic vertebra and the twelfth rib attaching to the twelfth thoracic vertebra. The ribs help to protect the vital organs located within the thoracic cavity, including the heart, lungs, and other major blood vessels.
In addition to their role in supporting and protecting the body, the thoracic vertebrae also play a crucial role in enabling movement. The thoracic vertebrae are connected to one another by intervertebral discs and various ligaments, which allow for a range of movements such as bending, twisting, and rotation. These movements are essential for activities such as reaching, lifting, and throwing.
Despite their importance, the thoracic vertebrae are also prone to injury and disease. Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by the loss of bone density, is a common cause of thoracic vertebral fractures. In addition, thoracic spinal stenosis, a condition in which the spinal canal becomes narrowed, can cause pain and discomfort in the upper back.
Overall, the thoracic vertebrae are a vital part of the human skeleton, providing support and stability while also enabling a range of movements. Despite the potential for injury and disease, proper care and maintenance of the thoracic vertebrae can help to prevent these issues and maintain good spinal health.
T9 Thoracic Vertebrae Anatomy, Function & Diagram
American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Typical thoracic vertebrae have several features distinct from those typical of cervical or lumbar vertebrae. Each number corresponds with the nerves in that section of your spinal cord, as well. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Mosby; 2013:1524-58. Anatomy, Back, Intervertebral Discs 3. As part of the transition to the lower back, T12 tends to have some characteristics that are more similar to the lumbar spine, such as a larger, wider-shaped vertebral body and a smaller transverse process that is accompanied by two other processes one that points upward and another that points downward.
These joints are also known as zygapophyseal joints or Z joints. The bottom of the vertebral body above has a costal demifacet partial facet , and so does the top of the vertebral body below. Overview The thoracic spine starts at the base of your neck and ends at the bottom of your ribs. These nerves carry messages between your brain and muscles. Have had rheumatoid arthritis from a child and now 70yrs old. Fractures especially caused by high energy impacts can leave a person without function of the muscles and nerves below it, that often cannot be recovered. However, what is the root cause of your pain? When thoracic vertebrae are harmed, such as through compression or injury, severe pain results.
Thoracic vertebrae anatomy, function & thoracic vertebrae injury
Pain in your upper and middle back is more likely to be from muscle or ligament strain, which is usually temporary. The fractured broken bones then damage your spinal cord and its nerves. In the majority of cases, the pain will subside within a few weeks with simple at-home care. The positioning of the ribs and spinous processes greatly limits flexion and extension of thoracic vertebrae. If you are generally unwell or have other symptoms, it is crucial that you see a medical professional. The tenth thoracic vertebra T10 is one of twelve vertebrae that make up the central section of the vertebral column. See Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury The spinal cord is the main bundle of nerves that runs from the base of the brain all the way down through the cervical spine and thoracic spine before splitting into a bundle of nerve roots cauda equina in the lumbar spine.
In: Schwartz's Principles of Surgery. Call the ambulance immediately. It extends from the skull to the coccyx and includes the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral regions. The great majority of cases are harmless and will resolve on their own, but a small number are linked to serious spinal problems. They typically occur near joints in your mid-back and upper back thoracic spine but are more common in your cervical and lumbar spine regions.
Ask your healthcare provider about what amount is appropriate for you. Merck Manual Professional Version. Tendons connect muscles to bone and aid movement. Each of these processes has its corresponding articular facets, superior articular facet, and inferior articular facet. In reality, it can mean sleepless nights, poor mobility, stress and anxiety, and more. The vertebral arch forms much of the spinal canal at the sides and back of the vertebrae that encases and protects the spinal cord. Other tumors, such as osteoid osteomas, osteoblastomas and hemangiomas, also can develop in the bones of the spine.
The transverse processes are very short, tuberculated at their extremities, and do not have articular facets. Functional causes, on the other hand, are linked to the muscles, ligaments, or nerves in the area. Your thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae numbered T1 to T12. Bones can weaken with age, especially in women. This part of the spine is very mobile and necessary for many daily activities. Over time, the pain can keep us from doing what we love.
Thoracic Vertebrae Spine (T1) Images, Model & Pictures
Treat Thoracic Pain Naturally Here are a few steps you can take today to begin relieving middle back pain. Thank you for an excellent product. Prognosis For Thoracic Spine Pain Thoracic spine pain usually has a very positive prognosis. PTPF involves placing screws into the pedicles, which are small bones that connect the vertebrae to each other. Traces of similar elevations are found on the transverse processes of the tenth and eleventh thoracic vertebrae.
By reducing inflammation, these procedures can help to ease discomfort. This site is for educational purposes only; no information is intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. On both sides of the vertebral body lie two concave cartilage-lined depressions, named superior and inferior costal facets, where the ribs get attached. This can be from lifting heavy objects or from doing the same motions many times. Thoracic spine syndrome is a broad term that encompasses many different causes of pain in this area of the body.
Your spine backbone is the long, flexible column of bones that protects your spinal cord. Tumors of the central nervous system. Kyphosis happens when the vertebrae in your upper back thoracic spine become more wedge-shaped. However, T5-T8 have the greatest rotation ability of the thoracic region. How many thoracic vertebrae are there? Structural causes originate from problems with the bones, disks, or joints in the thoracic spine. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Together, you and your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment plan for you.
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