Dimensions of human lumbar vertebrae in the sagittal plane.

Geometrical dimensions of the lumbar segments were determined from a series of lateral radiographs. A two-dimensional model of the lumbar vertebra in the sagittal plane is used. The model is based on five landmarks, which enable the determination of twelve geometrical parameters. The sample includes 157 healthy young males, 20-38 years old. Two-dimensional analysis of vertebral body height, depth and intervertebral spacing was performed. In all subjects disc height increases from L1 to L5, while anterior height is always bigger than posterior height, which emphasizes the lordotic shape of the lumbar region. Anthropometrical values are presented and geometrical relations between the lumbar segments are discussed.

[1]  A B Schultz,et al.  A mathematical model for the study of the mechanics of the human vertebral column. , 1970, Journal of biomechanics.

[2]  A L Yettram,et al.  Structural analysis for the forces in the human spinal column and its musculature. , 1982, Journal of biomedical engineering.

[3]  J R Brown,et al.  Factors contributing to the development of low back pain in industrial workers. , 1975, American Industrial Hygiene Association journal.

[4]  G. Costanzo,et al.  Reciprocal Angulation of Vertebral Bodies in a Sagittal Plane: Approach to References for the Evaluation of Kyphosis and Lordosis , 1982, Spine.

[5]  M H Pope,et al.  The mechanical and kinematic analysis of the lumbar spine in normal living human subjects in vivo. , 1979, Journal of biomechanics.

[6]  W. Goldsmith,et al.  Response of a human head-neck model to transient saggital plane loading. , 1983, Journal of biomechanics.

[7]  J Dimnet,et al.  The finite displacements vector's method: an application to the scoliotic spine. , 1984, Journal of biomechanics.

[8]  A B Schultz,et al.  A study of geometrical relationships in scoliotic spines. , 1972, Journal of biomechanics.

[9]  D. Chaffin.  Human strength capability and low-back pain. , 1974, Journal of occupational medicine. : official publication of the Industrial Medical Association.

[10]  A. Nachemson.  Towards a better understanding of low-back pain: a review of the mechanics of the lumbar disc. , 1975, Rheumatology and rehabilitation.

[11]  H. Farfan,et al.  The instantaneous center of rotation of the third lumbar intervertebral joint. , 1971, Journal of biomechanics.

[12]  J D Troup,et al.  Driver's back pain and its prevention. A review of the postural, vibratory and muscular factors, together with the problem of transmitted road-shock. , 1978, Applied ergonomics.

[13]  I. Meschan.  Radiographic positioning and related anatomy , 1968 .