Bones of the Back

Overview

The vertebral column forms the central supporting structure of the back, protecting the spinal cord and enabling a wide range of movements. This section introduces its major components and the organisation of its cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal regions.

Key Structures

Content covers vertebral anatomy, intervertebral joints and supporting ligaments. The section explains vertebral features and the functional differences between spinal regions.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Understanding the vertebral column is essential for interpreting back pain, spinal trauma, degenerative disease and neurological signs. This foundation supports imaging interpretation, physical examination and procedural planning.

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The Vertebral Column

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Diagram illustrating the course of the inferior epigastric artery originating from the external iliac artery.
Encyclopaedia

Inferior Epigastric Artery

by Amber Kraczkowska

Diagram illustrating the third layer of plantar muscles in the foot, including Flexor Hallucis Brevis, Adductor Hallucis, and Flexor Digiti Minimi Brevis.
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Flexor Hallucis Brevis

by Sanya Trikha

Encyclopaedia

Extensor Digiti Minimi

by Dr Oliver Jones