L# - Lumbar Vertebrae

L# refers to a specific vertebra in the lumber (lower) spine. The lumbar spine is comprised of five vertebrae that are numbered L1 though L5 from top to bottom, though some individuals do have a sixth lumbar vertebra. The vertebrae in this region of the spine are responsible for supporting most of a person’s weight, making the lower back more susceptible to injury and degeneration than other areas of the back and neck.

Anatomy of L# Vertebrae

The vertebrae are just one of many anatomical elements found in the neck and back. These bony structures are responsible for protecting the spine and are made up of the following elements:

• Body – The largest part of a vertebra, the body is shaped like a cylinder and attaches to the intervertebral discs. 
• Arch – The arch of a vertebra is comprised of two pedicles (which connect to the body), the laminae (two bony plates) and the vertebral foramen, which houses the spinal cord.
• Processes – The processes connect muscles and ligaments to the vertebrae.

Conditions Affecting the L# Vertebrae

The vertebral components can each play a role in any number of spinal conditions. The vertebral body, for instance, can slip out of place, resulting in a spinal condition called spondylolisthesis. When a spinal condition such as spondylolisthesis causes the vertebra to impinge a spinal nerve, patients can experience pain, numbness and weakness. Ailments that affect the lumbar spine can cause sciatica, a condition that occurs with the sciatic nerve (which travels from the lower back, down each leg to the feet) becomes impinged.

Treating L# Vertebral Conditions

Many patients with conditions that affect the vertebrae in the lumbar spine find relief from conservative treatments such as pain medications and bed rest. Patients who fail to benefit from these treatments may want to consider one of the minimally invasive procedures performed by Laser Spine Institute. Contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more about our endoscopic procedures and the spinal conditions they are used to treat.