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Vertebrae (anatomy)

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The vertebrae can be divided into regional groups, from superior to inferior:

  • 7 cervical vertebrae, including:
    • C1 - atlas
    • C2 - axis
    • C7 - vertebra prominens
  • 12 thoracic vertebra
  • 5 lumbar vertebra
  • sacrum - fusion of 5 sacral vertebrae
  • coccyx - fusion of 4 coccygeal vertebrae

There is a common structure to the upper, presacral vertebrae with slight regional variation. They are divided up by intervertebral joints containing the intervertebral discs and posterior zygapophysial joints.


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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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