Thoracic spine (Columna vertebralis thoracica)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
Twelve vertebrae (T1–T12) that articulate with the ribs to form the thoracic cage; their mobility is limited in favour of chest stability and protection of heart and lungs.
Clinical notes
Exaggerated curvature (kyphosis) is common with prolonged sitting and ageing; compression fractures are linked to osteoporosis.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Thoracic spine?
Twelve vertebrae (T1–T12) that articulate with the ribs to form the thoracic cage; their mobility is limited in favour of chest stability and protection of heart and lungs.
Why is the Thoracic spine clinically important?
Exaggerated curvature (kyphosis) is common with prolonged sitting and ageing; compression fractures are linked to osteoporosis.
Source & license
Derived from Z-Anatomy (Gauthier Kervyn et al.), CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/); upstream geometry from BodyParts3D, © The Database Center for Life Science. license details