Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)

Thoracic vertebrae (T1–T12)

Vertebrae thoracicae (T1–T12)

Origin

12 thoracic vertebrae with costal facets articulatory with rib heads and tubercles

Insertion

Attachment site for erector spinae, trapezius, latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, and rotatores

Function

Forms dorsal column of thoracic cage; protects thoracic spinal cord and mediastinal organs

Innervation

Thoracic spinal nerves (T1–T12)

Movement & chain

Permits axial trunk rotation; flexion and extension are restricted by rib cage attachments

Palpation

Spinous processes project obliquely downward along dorsal midline of the back

Clinical

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures; idiopathic scoliosis; hyperkyphosis (Scheuermann's disease)

Segmental innervation

T1–T12

In clinical practice

Core evaluation in postural assessment, thoracic mobilization, and pain management

Region in the model

Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)