The Lumbar Vertebrae

Found in the lumbar region of the body.

Lumbar vertebra has a large and broad centrum to offer support.

Has broad and long transverse processes projecting forwards and downwards from the centrum.

Has a broad neural spine to offer a large surface for attachment of abdominal muscles.

Have extra processes; metapophysis and anapophysis that offer additional surfaces for the attachment of abdominal muscles.

Metapophyses are paired processes projecting forwards above the anterior zygapophysis.

Anapophyses are paired processes projecting backwards beneath the posterior zygapophysis.

Lumbar vertebrae are adapted to support the weight of the body and to withstand strains of movement.