What structure provides shock absorption between vertebrae?

What structure provides shock absorption between vertebrae?

• A. Pubic symphysis
• B. Costal cartilage
• C. Intervertebral discs
• D. Vertebral bodies

Answer: (C)

Between adjacent vertebrae, shock is dampened by the intervertebral discs. These discs have an outer fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) that holds the disc together and resists tearing, and a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) that presses outward to spread and absorb compressive forces. This combination lets the spine cope with loads from standing and movement while still allowing flexion, extension, and twisting. The other structures mentioned don’t provide this cushioning between vertebrae: the pubic symphysis is a joint between the pelvic bones, and costal cartilage connects ribs to the sternum. Vertebral bodies are the bony blocks that bear weight, but the actual shock-absorbing cushion between them is the intervertebral disc.

Between adjacent vertebrae, shock is dampened by the intervertebral discs. These discs have an outer fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) that holds the disc together and resists tearing, and a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) that presses outward to spread and absorb compressive forces. This combination lets the spine cope with loads from standing and movement while still allowing flexion, extension, and twisting. The other structures mentioned don’t provide this cushioning between vertebrae: the pubic symphysis is a joint between the pelvic bones, and costal cartilage connects ribs to the sternum. Vertebral bodies are the bony blocks that bear weight, but the actual shock-absorbing cushion between them is the intervertebral disc.