What is the vertebral column?
vertebral column is a number of articulated bones known as vertebrae, which act as an axis of the body in organisms known as vertebrates. The column, also known as the spine, is a critical part of anatomy and serves a number of important functions. In people in the vertebrate column, there are some unique features that are designed to facilitate upright walking. The construction of the human pelvis also differs greatly from the design of other animals, which reflects the upright orientation of the body.
Some people are surprised to find that the number of bones in the vertebral column is really different depending on the person. The number is usually between 32 and 34, with several of these bones being fused. For example, Coccyx and Sacrum at the vertebral column base are made of bone groups that have joined together.
At the top of the vertebral column, it will find a special vertebra known as the "Atlas". The Atlas supports the skull, and the name is a reference to the mythological figure of the Atlas, who managed to support the weight of the world. Under the atlas we finde vertebrae of cervix or neck, followed by thoracic vertebrae in the middle and lumbar vertebra in the lower spine. Among each pair of vertebrae is a strong, hard, slightly giving layer of material called a disk. The discs articulate joints, allowing some flexibility and also act as shock absorbers for the spine shocks.
One important function of the vertebral column is the protection of the spinal cord, the key component of the central nervous system. The spinal cord consists of a cluster of nerve fibers wrapped in several layers of hard material that act as a vagina. The vertebrae provide additional protection against impact, grip and other potential sources of trauma.
In the case of thoracic vertebrae, the backbone column also provides an attachment point for bones, namely ribs. Together thoracic vertebrae, ribs and chest create a hard protective case of bone to protect vital organs. Known as rib cages, design protects the heart and lungs from pby the obnoxial trauma.
A number of medical problems may include vertebral column, including fractures, scoliosis, kyphosis, slipped discs, herniated discs, hair cracks and degenerative diseases such as arthritis. The treatment of these conditions varies and may include the use of surgery, drugs and physical therapy.