I.A.1 Back: Vertebral Column, Articulations & Ligaments: Page 5 of 5
Look at the accompanying diagram and answer the following questions:
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In general ligaments serve to strengthen the joints between bones. The anterior longitudinal ligament is much wider that than the posterior longitudinal ligament. Why would this happen from an anatomical perspective? |
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The posterior longitudinal ligament runs in the vertebral canal and therefore must be thinner. |
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If an intervertebral disk slips from between two vertebrae, will it slip anteriorly or posteriorly? |
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Posteriorly, because the posterior longitudinal ligament is not as wide and cannot prevent the slippage as easily. This could potentially cause compression of the spinal cord. |
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