7. The Skeletal System

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

a. The thoracic and sacral curvatures are the vertebral column's concave curvatures.

Which part of the spine will have fewer individual bones as you age?

Mrs. Dent presents to the clinic with back pain. During the exam, you notice that she has severe kyphosis, and you suspect a vertebral fracture. What specific part of her vertebra is likely to be fractured, considering her deformity? Explain.

Mr. Wright had polio as a boy and was partially paralyzed in one lower limb for over a year. Although no longer paralyzed, he now has a severe lateral curvature of the lumbar spine. Explain what has happened and identify his condition.

List at least two specific anatomical characteristics each for typical cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae that would allow anyone to identify each type correctly.

How do the atlas (C₁) and the axis (C₂) differ from other cervical vertebrae? How does this difference enable them to perform their functions?

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

c. The posterior projection from a vertebra is the spinous process.

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

d. The sacral, coccygeal, and cervical vertebrae are fused in an adult.