DORSAL SPINE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "dorsal spine" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in vertebrate animals, including humans. It is a critical component of the vertebral column, commonly referred to as the backbone or spine.
The dorsal spine is the posterior region of the vertebral column, running along the back side of the body. It is composed of a series of individual bones called vertebrae, which are stacked on top of one another and connected by ligaments and intervertebral discs. These vertebrae are categorized into different regions based on their specific location within the spine, with the dorsal spine corresponding to the thoracic and upper lumbar regions.
Functionally, the dorsal spine plays a crucial role in providing support and protection to the spinal cord, which is situated within the vertebral column. It also serves as an anchor for the attachment of various muscles and tendons, contributing to overall body stability and movement. Additionally, the dorsal spine helps to distribute the weight of the body evenly and allows for flexibility and movement in multiple directions.
Disorders or injuries to the dorsal spine can have significant consequences on an individual's overall health and wellbeing. Common conditions that may affect the dorsal spine include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and vertebral fractures. Treatment options may vary depending on the specific issue and severity, ranging from conservative measures such as physical therapy, pain management, and bracing, to surgical interventions such as spinal fusion or discectomy.
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Spina dorsalis, backbone, spinal or vertebral column.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DORSAL SPINE
- sorsal spine
- xorsal spine
- corsal spine
- forsal spine
- rorsal spine
- eorsal spine
- dirsal spine
- dkrsal spine
- dlrsal spine
- dprsal spine
- d0rsal spine
- d9rsal spine
- doesal spine
- dodsal spine
- dofsal spine
- dotsal spine
- do5sal spine
- do4sal spine
- doraal spine
- dorzal spine
Etymology of DORSAL SPINE
The word "dorsal" is derived from the Latin word "dorsalis", which means "of the back". It comes from the noun "dorsum", meaning "back", and can also be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*ders-", meaning "to be straight" or "to direct".
The term "spine" comes from the Latin word "spina", which means "thorn" or "spine". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Indo-European root "*spei-", meaning "sharp" or "pointed".
Combining these two elements, "dorsal spine" can be understood as a term that refers to the sharp or pointed structures found along the back of certain animals or organisms.
