My Spine - Cervical
F
G
F
A
B
E
C
D
Figure 4.1
Image used with permission from Stryker
This drawing demonstrates a cervical vertebra seen from above. (A) indicates
the facet joint. (B) indicates the lamina which forms the back part of the
spinal canal along with (C), the spinous process. (D) indicates the ligamen-
tum flavum. (E) indicates the spinal cord and (F) indicates a nerve root in its
foramen. (G) indicates the vertebral body which forms the front margin of the
spinal canal and the intervertebral disc rests on top of it. Spinal stenosis
occurs once there is narrowing of the canal (E) as a result of enlarged liga-
ments inside the canal, enlarged facet joints (A) and when the intervertebral
discs that rest on the vertebral body (G) herniates (prolapses) backwards into
the canal.
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