Back & Neck Pain
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Back & Neck Pain

Parts of the Vertebra - Spinous Process

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 12, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

See More About:
Parts of a Vertebra- Spinous Process - Transverse Process - Vertebral Body

Parts of a Vertebra - Spinous Process - Transverse Process - Vertebral Body

(c) Anne Asher 2006 licensed to About.com
Definition: The spinous process is the protrusion on the center of the back of a vertebral body. It is the site for the attachment of many spinal muscles.

The spinous process is often mistaken for the whole backbone, as it is the only part of the vertebral column you can touch with your hands.

Explore Back & Neck Pain
About.com Special Features

8 Ways to Cut Drug Costs

Learn how to save money on medications with these recommendations. More >

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
Back & Neck Pain
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Back & Neck Pain
  4. Chronic Back - Neck Pain
  5. Glossary
  6. S
  7. Parts of the Vertebra - Spinous Process >

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.