Thoracic Spine

The thoracic vertebra is the second segment of the vertebral column has is composed of 12 thoracic vertebrae that concave anteriorly, and are separated from each other by intervertebral discs. The intervertebral discs absorb shock between the individual vertebrae of the spinal column and provide additional protection to the nerves running down spinal column as well.

The thoracic vertebrae articulate with the ribs which in turn articulate with the sternum and this collective structure forms the thoracic cage.

The parts of the thoracic spine can be categorized as: