supraspinousligamenten

Supraspinousligamenten, or ligaments of the supraspinous region, are strong fibrous bands that run along the tips of the spinous processes of the vertebral column from the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) to the sacrum. They lie just posterior to the interspinous ligaments and form the posterior border of the spinal canal in their course.

In the cervical region, the supraspinous ligament is continued superiorly as the ligamentum nuchae, a thickened fold that attaches to the occipital bone and the cervical spinous processes. The thoracic and lumbar portions remain as a continuous ligament along the tips of the spinous processes, with the lumbar part generally being thicker.

The ligament is composed primarily of densely packed collagen fibers, making it relatively inelastic compared with other spinal ligaments. It is sparsely vascularized and receives nourishment from surrounding tissues. Innervation is provided by the medial branches of the dorsal rami of the spinal nerves, enabling proprioceptive and nociceptive signaling.

Functionally, the supraspinous ligaments help limit flexion of the spine and stabilize the spinous processes, contributing to overall posture and coordinated movement. In the cervical region, the associated nuchal continuum aids in supporting the head and maintaining head posture.

Clinical relevance includes strain or injury in whiplash-type events, where irritation of the supraspinous ligaments can contribute to back pain. The ligaments may be encountered or partially transected during posterior spinal surgical approaches, with implications for postoperative stability and pain.