LUMBAR VERTEBRAE Meaning and
Definition
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Lumbar vertebrae refer to the series of bony segments located in the lower back region of the spine, known as the lumbar spine. The human vertebral column is divided into several sections, with the lumbar spine being the lowermost segment situated between the thoracic vertebrae in the upper back and the sacrum and coccyx in the pelvis. There are typically five lumbar vertebrae, numbered L1 to L5, although some individuals may have an extra, smaller vertebra called the L6.
These vertebrae serve essential functions in the body's structure and movement. They provide support, stability, and flexibility to the spine, enabling various motions such as bending, twisting, and lifting. The lumbar vertebrae are generally larger and wider compared to the other sections of the spine, having a robust structure to accommodate the significant weight-bearing demands placed upon them.
Each lumbar vertebra consists of a round vertebral body at the front, which bears the majority of the load, and a bony arch at the back known as the vertebral arch. This arch encloses the central canal, through which the spinal cord passes. In addition, the lumbar vertebrae feature several processes, including transverse processes on either side and spinous processes projecting backward. These processes serve as attachment points for muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues, playing a crucial role in maintaining the stability and movement of the lower back region.
In summary, lumbar vertebrae are the large, sturdy, and flexible bones located in the lower back that constitute the lumbar spine. They contribute significantly to the overall function, stability, and weight-bearing capabilities of the human spine.
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The five vertebrae between the thoracic vertebrae and the sacrum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LUMBAR VERTEBRAE
- lumbar vertebra
- lumbar vertabra
- kumbar vertebrae
- pumbar vertebrae
- oumbar vertebrae
- lymbar vertebrae
- lhmbar vertebrae
- ljmbar vertebrae
- limbar vertebrae
- l8mbar vertebrae
- l7mbar vertebrae
- lunbar vertebrae
- lukbar vertebrae
- lujbar vertebrae
- lumvar vertebrae
- lumnar vertebrae
- lumhar vertebrae
- lumgar vertebrae
- lumbzr vertebrae
- lumbsr vertebrae
Etymology of LUMBAR VERTEBRAE
The word "lumbar" is derived from the Latin word "lumbus", which means "loin". It refers to the lower back region of the body. "Vertebrae" comes from the Latin word "vertere", meaning "to turn". Thus, "lumbar vertebrae" literally means the vertebrae of the lower back that are responsible for allowing movement and flexibility in the region.
