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Spinous and Transverse Processes

Updated March 07, 2007

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Parts of a Vertebra - Spinous Process and Transverse Processes

The spinous and transverse processes are projections of bone off the vertebral body to which back muscles attach.

(c) Anne Asher 2006 licensed to About.com
The spinous and transverse processes are projections of bone which look a little like fingers. They are located on the bony ring in back of the vertebral body. On each vertebra, there are two transverse processes and one spinous process. The two transverse process are located on the side, while the spinous process is located in the middle. These processes are sites on which back muscles and ligaments attach.

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