Where the third lumbar vertebra (l3) sits in the skeleton

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the skeleton is the third lumbar vertebra (L3) in?

The third lumbar vertebra (L3) 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 third lumbar vertebra (L3)?

Above the third lumbar vertebra (L3) is the second lumbar vertebra (L2), and below it is the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4).

At what level of the spine is the navel?

Usually between the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae, though it varies a little between people.