Spine · Irregular bone
Thoracic Vertebrae (Mid-back)
The thoracic vertebrae are the twelve bones of the mid-back that the ribs attach to. They form the back of the chest and protect the spinal cord.
What it is
The thoracic vertebrae are the twelve vertebrae in the middle of the spine, each connecting to a pair of ribs.
Where it is
The middle back, between the neck and the lower back.
What it does
Form the back of the rib cage, anchor the ribs, support the trunk and protect the spinal cord. Their rib attachments make this the least mobile part of the spine.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Joints with the ribs
- Joints with neighbouring vertebrae
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Thoracic (mid-back) pain
- Osteoporotic wedge fractures (common in older adults, causing loss of height)
- Kyphosis (excessive forward curve)
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
Osteoporosis often shows up first as small compression fractures of the thoracic vertebrae, which is why people can lose height and develop a stoop with age.
Answers
Thoracic Vertebrae: frequently asked questions
What are the thoracic vertebrae?
The thoracic vertebrae are the twelve bones of the mid-back that the ribs attach to. They form the back of the chest.
Explore the spine
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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