Where the fourth lumbar vertebra (l4) sits in the skeleton

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the skeleton is the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4) in?

The fourth lumbar vertebra (L4) 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 fourth lumbar vertebra (L4)?

Above the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4) is the third lumbar vertebra (L3), and below it is the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5).

How do you find the level of a lumbar vertebra?

A line joining the highest points of the two iliac crests usually crosses the fourth lumbar spinous process or the gap below it. Count up or down from there.