- There are 2 main types of spinal ligaments
- Vertebral body ligaments – 2 longitudinal ligaments
- Vertebral arch ligaments – 5 ligaments. (4 at any given point)
- These are all continuous throughout the spine
Vertebral body ligaments
- Anterior longitudinal ligament – Prevents hyperextension
- Posterior longitudinal ligament – Prevents hyperflexion
Vertebral arch ligaments
Five key ligaments that all limit flexion:
- Ligamentum flavum – connects adjacent laminae from C2-S1
- Limit flexion
- Intertransverse ligament – Connects transverse processes
- Also limits flexion
- Interspinous ligament – Connects spinous processes
- Also limits flexion
- Supraspinous ligament – Connects tips of spinous processes (from C7-S1)
- Continuous with the nuchal ligament above C7
- Nuchal Ligament – Superior contiuation of the supraspinous ligament
- However, it also encapsulates interspinous ligament (i.e. not just tips)
- Attaches to the nuchal line