Selkänikamat

Selkänikamat, also known as lumbar vertebrae, are the five vertebrae located in the lower back, between the thoracic vertebrae and the sacrum. They are the largest and strongest vertebrae in the spinal column, designed to bear the majority of the body's weight and withstand significant forces. Each lumbar vertebra consists of a vertebral body, a vertebral arch, and several processes. The vertebral body is a thick, cylindrical bone that forms the anterior part of the vertebra. The vertebral arch is formed by pedicles and laminae and encloses the vertebral foramen, which together with the foramina of adjacent vertebrae, form the vertebral canal housing the spinal cord. The spinous process projects posteriorly, while the transverse processes project laterally. These structures provide attachment points for muscles and ligaments that support the spine and facilitate movement. The intervertebral discs, made of fibrocartilage, are located between the vertebral bodies and act as shock absorbers and allow for spinal flexibility. The lumbar spine allows for flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation, though rotation is more limited in this region compared to the thoracic spine. Conditions affecting the selkänikamat can lead to lower back pain, a common ailment.