vertebral column

Vertebral Column

Vertebral column also called Spine, Spinal column, Back bone 

S shaped

Extend from base of skull through entire length of trunk or torso.

Length - Average adult male - 70cm (28 inch)

               Average adult female - 60cm (24 inch)

Curvature of Vertebral Column

1. Primary curvature

Thoracic curve and secral curve -- present in fetus 

Concave forward

2. Secondary curvature

Cervical (develop 3 months after birth) and lumber curvature (appear 12-18 months after birth).

Develop after birth.

Convex forward

Vertebral Column

Intervertebral disc;

Shock absorbing, provide cushions

Consisting of fibrocartilage