Human Vertebral And Partial Spinal Cord

Quick Answer: The human vertebral and partial spinal cord model shows a short section of the vertebral column with the segment of spinal cord it protects, the intervertebral discs and the spinal nerves leaving between the vertebrae. This vertebrae and spinal cord model is used to teach how bone, disc and nerve fit together in the spine.

Vertebrae, Discs and Nerve Roots

Partial in the title means the model covers a few vertebrae rather than the whole column, which lets each part be shown at a readable size. A typical vertebra has a weight-bearing body at the front and a vertebral arch behind, made of two pedicles and two laminae, with a spinous process pointing back and transverse processes to each side. Body and arch enclose the vertebral foramen; stacked together, these foramina form the canal that houses the spinal cord.

Between the bodies lie intervertebral discs, each with a tough outer ring, the annulus fibrosus, around a softer core, the nucleus pulposus. Where two vertebrae meet, notches in their pedicles form the intervertebral foramen through which a spinal nerve exits. A disc that bulges backwards can press on that nerve, which is why a slipped disc in the lower back often causes pain down the leg.

Which region of the spine the model represents, how many vertebrae it includes and whether parts separate is not given. A superior version of this model is listed alongside, and the spine anatomy poster shows the whole column.

Applications

• Teaching the parts of a vertebra in anatomy and physiotherapy
• Explaining disc prolapse and nerve root compression in health courses
• Showing where spinal nerves leave the vertebral canal
• Linking posture and safe lifting lessons to the structure of the spine

Specifications

Care & Handling

• Handle the vertebrae and spinal cord model by its base; the vertebral processes are thin and break under side pressure.
• If the model is flexible, bend it only within a natural range of movement.
• Keep it clean with a dry brush, working gently around the nerve roots.

Why Choose LabEquip

Physiotherapy schools, nursing colleges and biology departments use a short spinal segment to explain structures that look too small on a whole skeleton. LabEquip lists it within its biology lab products; ask through the contact page which spinal region it represents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the parts of a vertebra?

A typical vertebra has a body at the front, a vertebral arch behind it formed by pedicles and laminae, a spinous process pointing back, two transverse processes and articular processes that form joints with the vertebrae above and below.

What is an intervertebral disc?

It is a pad of fibrocartilage between two vertebral bodies. Its tough outer annulus fibrosus surrounds a gel-like nucleus pulposus, and together they absorb shocks and allow the spine to bend.

What happens in a slipped disc?

Part of the nucleus pulposus pushes through a weakened annulus, usually towards the back and side. If it presses on a nearby spinal nerve, it can cause pain, tingling or weakness in the area that nerve supplies.

Where do spinal nerves exit the spine?

Through the intervertebral foramina, openings formed between the notches of adjacent vertebrae. Each spinal nerve carries both sensory and motor fibres.

Does the spinal cord run the whole length of the spine?

No. In adults it usually ends at about the level of the first or second lumbar vertebra. Below that, the canal holds a bundle of nerve roots called the cauda equina.

How does this model differ from the superior version?

Both show vertebrae with part of the spinal cord. The superior listing appears to be a higher grade of the same subject, but its additions are not stated, so compare the two descriptions if fine detail matters.

Last Updated: September 2026