Word parts
What it means
The spine has 33 vertebrae: 7 cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (chest), 5 lumbar (lower back), 5 fused into the sacrum and about 4 fused into the coccyx (tailbone). Each has a hole through which the spinal cordSPY-nul KORDThe long bundle of nerves that runs down through the backbone and carries messages between the brain and the body.Full entry passes, and disks between them cushion the bones.
For the nurse
Spinal injuries are named by the vertebra level (for example, "C5 fracture"). Keep the spine in line and log-roll a client with a suspected spine injury.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | C1–C7, T1–T12, L1–L5 |
|---|---|
| Spanish | vértebra |
| Also written | vertebrae, vertebral |
Related terms
osteoporosis
A condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.
spinal cord
The long bundle of nerves that runs down through the backbone and carries messages between the brain and the body.
cartilage
Firm, smooth, rubbery tissue that cushions joints and gives shape to parts such as the ear, nose and windpipe.