Which characteristic is unique to thoracic vertebrae?
The thoracic vertebrae are a group of twelve small bones that form the vertebral spine in the upper trunk. Thoracic vertebrae are unique among the bones of the spine in that they are the only vertebrae that support ribs and have overlapping spinous processes.
What are the features of thoracic vertebrae?
Thoracic vertebrae have bodies of intermediate size. They are distinguished by their long, slender spines and by the presence of facets on the sides of the bodies articulating with the heads of the ribs and by facets on the transverse processes articulating with the tubercles of ribs.
What are the characteristics of vertebrae?
They have three main distinguishing features:
- Bifid spinous process – the spinous process bifurcates at its distal end.
- Transverse foramina – an opening in each transverse process, through which the vertebral arteries travel to the brain.
- Triangular vertebral foramen.
What are the function of the thoracic vertebrae?
Thoracic (mid back) – the main function of the thoracic spine is to hold the rib cage and protect the heart and lungs. The twelve thoracic vertebrae are numbered T1 to T12. The range of motion in the thoracic spine is limited.
What is the most important feature of the thoracic vertebrae?
Distinguishing features of the thoracic vertebrae include the presence of facets on the sides of the bodies for articulation with the heads of the ribs, and facets on the transverse processes of all, except the 11th and 12th vertebrae, for articulation with the tubercles of the ribs.
Is thoracic back pain serious?
Thoracic back pain is common throughout life but is not as well studied as neck pain or low back pain. Thoracic back pain is more often due to serious spinal pathology than neck or low back pain but thoracic back pain is also prevalent among healthy individuals without any serious underlying cause.
Why is thoracic pain a red flag?
Recent violent trauma (such as a vehicle accident or fall from a height). Minor trauma, or even just strenuous lifting, in people with osteoporosis. Age at onset less than 20 or over 50 years (new back pain). History of cancer, medicine abuse, HIV, immunosuppression or prolonged use of corticosteroids.
What does thoracic pain feel like?
Just like radiating pain, these symptoms can also radiate along a nerve from the thoracic spine and are into the arm, chest, stomach, or lower in the body. Pins-and-needles tingling or numbness radiating from the thoracic spine can feel like the shape of a band running along one of the ribs.
Why does my thoracic vertebrae hurt?
Thoracic spinal joints can become painful in various ways. For example, cartilage tears and degeneration can develop in the facet joints where adjacent thoracic vertebrae articulate with each other. It is also possible for a rib to become misaligned or displaced from the vertebrae.