Thoracic Intervertebral joints

• joint classification:

  facet (zygopophyseal) joints

  - Facets almost vertically A-P to allow large amount rotation (≈ 35°) in each direction

  - Combined Flexion/Extension (≈ 50-70°)

  - Lateral flexion ≈ 20-25° (to each side)
• joint classification:

  intervertebral discs

  - I/V disc = Secondary cartilaginous joint

  - Thin relative to height of vertebral body