Lumbar Vertebrae

• Lumbar Vertebrae

  the lumbar region receives the most stress

  the enhanced weight-bearing function of the 5 lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) is reflected in their sturdier structure

  their bodies r massive

  
• Characteristics of the Lumbar Vertebrae

  pedicles + laminae r shorter + thicker than those of regions

  spinous processes r short + flat

  these processes r robust + project directly backward, adaptions for the attachment of the large back muscles

  vertebral foramen is triangular
• Modification of the Orientation of the Facets

  the orientation of the facets of the articular processes of the lumbar vertebrae differs substantially from that of the other vertebra types

  these modifications lock the lumbar vertebrae together + provide stability by preventing rotation of the lumbar spine

  flexion + extension r possible as is lateral flexion