Where the fourth thoracic vertebra (t4) sits in the skeleton

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the skeleton is the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4) in?

The fourth thoracic vertebra (T4) 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 thoracic vertebra (T4)?

Above the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4) is the third thoracic vertebra (T3), and below it is the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5).

At what level of the spine is the sternal angle?

Usually at the gap between the fourth and fifth thoracic vertebrae. The second costal cartilage joins the sternum beside it, so it is the starting point for counting ribs from the front.