Where the first lumbar vertebra (l1) sits in the skeleton

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the skeleton is the first lumbar vertebra (L1) in?

The first lumbar vertebra (L1) is one of the bones of the vertebral column. Seven cervical, twelve thoracic and five lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum are stacked to support the trunk and enclose the spinal cord.

How many vertebrae are there?

The spine has 24 separate vertebrae. From the top there are seven cervical (neck), twelve thoracic (upper back) and five lumbar (lower back) vertebrae, followed by the sacrum and the coccyx.

Which bones are above and below the first lumbar vertebra (L1)?

Above the first lumbar vertebra (L1) is the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12), and below it is the second lumbar vertebra (L2).

Where does the spinal cord end?

In adults it usually ends between the first and second lumbar vertebrae. Below that a bundle of nerve roots, the cauda equina, continues down.