Where the sixth thoracic vertebra (t6) sits in the skeleton
The sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) is the 6th of the twelve thoracic vertebrae. It articulates with the ribs on each side to support the back of the rib cage, and the spinal cord runs through it. Thoracic spinous processes are long and slope downwards, overlapping the one below like roof tiles, and the slope is steepest in the middle of the thoracic spine.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of the skeleton is the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) in?
The sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) 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 sixth thoracic vertebra (T6)?
Above the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6) is the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5), and below it is the seventh thoracic vertebra (T7).
Why do thoracic spinous processes point downwards?
They are long and slope down over the vertebra below, so the tip you feel on the back lies lower than the body of its own vertebra.
Other bones of the vertebral column
- Atlas (C1)
- Axis (C2)
- Third cervical vertebra (C3)
- Fourth cervical vertebra (C4)
- Fifth cervical vertebra (C5)
- Sixth cervical vertebra (C6)
- Seventh cervical vertebra (C7)
- First thoracic vertebra (T1)
- Second thoracic vertebra (T2)
- Third thoracic vertebra (T3)
- Fourth thoracic vertebra (T4)
- Fifth thoracic vertebra (T5)
- Seventh thoracic vertebra (T7)
- Eighth thoracic vertebra (T8)
- Ninth thoracic vertebra (T9)
- Tenth thoracic vertebra (T10)
- Eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11)
- Twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12)
- First lumbar vertebra (L1)
- Second lumbar vertebra (L2)
- Third lumbar vertebra (L3)
- Fourth lumbar vertebra (L4)
- Fifth lumbar vertebra (L5)
- Sacrum
Joints of the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6)
Compare with similar bones
Bone counts
By region
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