Lumbar Vertebrae Anatomy

Author: Scott A. Sheffield MS

Last update: Nov 2nd, 2022

Introduction to Lumbar Vertebrae Anatomy:

The lumbar vertebrae (vertebrae lumbales) (L1 – L5) are located in the lower back and are discernibly larger and stronger than the cervical or thoracic vertebrae.

• They share the following distinguishing characteristics:

• The bodies of the lumbar vertebrae are massive, sturdy, and designed to withstand vertical compression.
• The spinous processes are broad and thick so stabilizing muscles can attach.
• The superior articular facets face inward (medially) and the inferior articular facets face outward (laterally).
• This arrangement permits flexion and extension movements but limits rotation.

Markings of the Lumbar Vertebrae:

1. The body or centrum (Corpus vertebrae) is a large, sturdy, cylindrical mass on the anterior side of the vertebra. It articulates with the vertebral bodies above and below and is designed to withstand vertical compression. [superior view/Lateral view]

2. The vertebral or spinal foramen (Foramen vertebrale) is a large, triangular-shaped opening located posterior to the body. The spinal cord and several nerves pass through the foramen.

3. The vertebral or neural arch (Arcus vertebrae) is formed by the two pedicles, two laminae, and spinous process. The arch encloses the posterior portion of the vertebral foramen.

4. Pedicles of the vertebral arch (Pediculus arcus vertebrae) are posterior extensions from the lateral sides of the body. The two pedicles form the base of the vertebral arch (L., pediculus, a little foot; stalk). [Superior view/Lateral view]

5. Laminae of the vertebral arch (Lamina archus vertebrae) are plates of bone that extend from the pedicles. The left and right laminae and the spinal process form the dorsal portion of the vertebral arch.

6. The spinous process (Processus spinosus) is a posterior projection from the junction of the two laminae. Its thick, broad, quadrilateral shape serves as an attachment point for ligaments and muscles that stabilize the back. [Superior view/Lateral view]

7. The transverse process (Processus transversus) is a long, thin, lateroposterior projection that originates near the junction of the pedicle, lamina, and superior articular process. It also serves as an attachment point for back muscles. [Superior view/Lateral view]

Use these diagrams and interactive vertebrae quizzes to learn anatomy of the spine fast.

8. The superior articular process (Processus articularis superior) is a superior projection near the junction of the pedicle and transverse process. The facet is concave, faces inward (medially), and articulates with the inferior articular facet on the vertebra above. [Superior view/Lateral view]

9. The inferior articular process (Processus articularis inferior) is an inferior projection from the juntion of the pedicle and lamina. The facet is convex, faces outward (laterally), and articulates with the superior articular facet on the vertebra below. [Lateral view]

10.  The intervertebral disc (Disci intervertebrales) is a thick pad of connective tissue that helps hold adjacent vertebrae together and acts as a shock absorber. It consists of an outer layer of fibrocartilage and an inner layer of gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus.

11. The superior vertebral notch (Incisor vertebralis superior) is a slight indentation on the superior surface of the pedicle.

12. The inferior vertebral notch (Incisor vertebralis inferior) is a larger indentation on the surface of the pedicle.

13. The intervertebral foramen (Foramina intervertebralia) is a large, lateral opeing formed by the notches of two articulating vertebrae.

14. A spinal nerve and its nerve roots pass through each intervertebral foramen (neural foramen or lateral foramen).

Test yourself:

Superior view [Show/Hide answers]

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Lateral view [Show/Hide answers]

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Articulated view [Show/Hide answers]

Interactive quiz about the lumbar vertebrae