The vertebral column provides structural support for the trunk and
surrounds and protects the spinal cord. The vertebral column also
provides attachment points for the muscles of the back and ribs.
The vertebral disks serve as shock absorbers during activities such
as walking, running, and jumping. They also allow the spine to flex
and extend.
Review Date: 05/02/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine; Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia
Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David
Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
