Thoracolumbaire

Thoracolumbaire, often rendered in English as thoracolumbar, refers to the anatomical region of the spine that lies at the junction between the thoracic and lumbar segments. In practice it encompasses the lower thoracic and upper lumbar levels, most commonly around the T12 to L2 region. This zone is a focal point for biomechanical transitions and is frequently implicated in pain and injury in clinical practice.

Anatomy in this region includes the thoracic and upper lumbar vertebrae, the thoracolumbar fascia, and surrounding musculature such as latissimus dorsi, external and internal obliques, transversus abdominis, quadratus lumborum, and the erector spinae group. The thoracolumbar fascia consists of anterior, middle, and posterior layers that envelop these muscles and attach to the iliac crest, spinous processes, ribs, and transverse processes. The region also interacts with the rib cage and the lower thoracic vertebrae.

Functionally, the thoracolumbar region provides trunk stability and transmits forces between the upper and lower body. It contributes to flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending, while acting as a conduit for neural and vascular structures passing to the abdomen and lower limb.

Clinically, the thoracolumbar junction is a common site of injury, including fractures (such as chance fractures at high-flexion injuries), sprains, and fascia-related pain. Evaluation typically uses X-ray, CT, or MRI. Management ranges from conservative approaches, including physical therapy and analgesia, to surgical stabilization for unstable injuries. See also thoracic spine, lumbar spine, thoracolumbar fascia.