[Morphology and dynamics of the spinal column]

Abstract

The function of the vertebral column--the supporting axial component of the body--can only be understood by detailed knowledge of its structure. For this reason the first part of the article gives a report of the latest findings on the ligaments and zygapophysial joints of the vertebral column. Particular emphasis has been laid on the functional cooperation of these ligaments and joints during movements of the segments of the column. The second part of the paper is concerned with the dynamic behaviour of the column in children and young people, and is described in terms of the anatomical information given before. The damping capacity of the spinal column and its rigidity depend on both the age of the subject and the position of the body. In the axial direction the damping effect of the column is relatively slight, but it becomes markedly increased during ventral flexion.