Question

multiple choice question

the lumbar portion of the spine consists of ______ lumbar vertebrae.

6
5
4
3

Explanation:

Identify the regions of the spine

Using the Vertebral Column Divisions knowledge point, we recall that the human vertebral column is divided into distinct regions from superior to inferior: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal.

Determine the number of vertebrae in each region

The standard distribution of moveable vertebrae in an adult human spine is:

• Cervical spine: 7 vertebrae (\(\text{C1}-\text{C7}\))
• Thoracic spine: 12 vertebrae (\(\text{T1}-\text{T12}\))
• Lumbar spine: 5 vertebrae (\(\text{L1}-\text{L5}\))

Match with the given options

The question asks for the number of vertebrae in the lumbar portion. This corresponds to 5 vertebrae, which matches the second option.

Answer:

• 6
• 5 (Correct answer)
• 4
• 3