Question

Are the cervical vertebrae the smallest vertebrae?

Answer 1

Vertebral column is defined as the central axial part of the skeleton that provides a support to the trunk and also provides attachment to the muscle. It is well known as the spinal column and has a total of 33 vertebrae. It can also be defined as a series of 33 bones known as vertebrae, which are separated by the intervertebral discs.

Complete answer:
The vertebral column is broadly divided into 5 morphological parts as shown in the below image.

- Cervical vertebrae are located in the neck and are seven in number (C1- C7). It helps in the act of nodding; a joint in this particular vertebra is well known as yes and no joints for its function. It is the smallest vertebrae.
- Thoracic vertebrae are twelve in number (T1- T12). They are situated between the cervical and the lumbar vertebrae. It helps to protect the heart and the lungs and also helps to hold the rib cage.
- Lumbar vertebrae are a total of five vertebrae (L1- L5). These are present in between the rib and pelvis. Lumbar is known as the lower back and its main function is to withhold the body weight. It is the largest vertebra and is shaped like a kidney.
- Sacrum vertebrae are total five in number (S1- S5) and are of triangular shape. It usually gets fused between the age of 18- 30 years and it helps mainly in connecting the spine to the bones of the lower hip.
- The coccyx is located at the lower bottom of the spine and is of a triangular shape. It usually has 3 to 5 fused or semi fused vertebrae. It is also known as tailbone.

Thus, we can say that the cervical vertebrae is the smallest vertebrae.

Note:
It is important to note that:
- Thoracic and lumbar vertebrae are together called the thoracolumbar region.
- The disorder of the defect in closing of the vertebral arch is called Spina bifida.