SPINOUS PROCESS Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "spinous process" refers to a bony projection that extends backward from the vertebrae, forming the posterior aspect of the spinal column. It can also be defined as a small, thin, pointed, or spiky growth arising from the surface of a bone or a process, specifically in relation to the spine.
The spinous process serves several important functions within the human skeleton. It provides attachment points for ligaments and muscles that help stabilize and move the spine. Additionally, these processes play a crucial role in protecting the spinal cord and spinal nerves by forming a continuous bony column that shields the fragile neural structures against potential damage.
Morphologically, spinous processes exhibit variations throughout the different regions of the spine. For instance, the cervical spinous processes are typically shorter and bifid (split into two branches), while the thoracic ones are longer, more sloping, and project posteriorly. In contrast, the lumbar spinous processes tend to be shorter with a more horizontal orientation.
Medical professionals and researchers often refer to spinous processes as anatomical landmarks when describing the location of specific vertebrae or spinal conditions. Imaging techniques, such as X-rays or CT scans, can help visualize and evaluate the shape, alignment, and potential abnormalities of these processes, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various spinal disorders.
-
• (1) Spina angularis, a process extending backward from the ala magna or large wing of the sphenoid bone; (2) processus spinosus, a process extending backward from the center of the arch of a vertebra, forming with those of the other vertebrae, the spine or ridge of the back; (3) spina iliaca, iliac spine; (4) eminentia intercondyloidea of the tibia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPINOUS PROCESS
- apinous process
- zpinous process
- xpinous process
- dpinous process
- epinous process
- wpinous process
- soinous process
- slinous process
- s-inous process
- s0inous process
- spunous process
- spjnous process
- spknous process
- sponous process
- sp9nous process
- sp8nous process
- spibous process
- spimous process
- spijous process
- spihous process
Etymology of SPINOUS PROCESS
The word "spinous" comes from the Latin word "spina" which means "thorn" or "spine". The term "spinous process" is commonly used in anatomy to refer to a bony protrusion on a vertebra. The term "process" in anatomy refers to a bony prominence or projection. Therefore, "spinous process" refers to the thorn-like or spine-like projection on a vertebra.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
