Intervertebral Disk of Second Lumbar Vertebra (L2–L3) (Discus intervertebralis L2–L3)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The intervertebral disk of the second lumbar vertebra (L2–L3) is a thick, highly resilient fibrocartilaginous cushion connecting the L2 and L3 vertebral bodies. It absorbs repetitive compressive stress from walking, lifting, and axial rotation, maintaining the intervertebral foramen height for the exiting L2 spinal nerve.
Clinical notes
Posterolateral herniation at L2–L3 compresses the L3 nerve root, presenting with radiating anterior thigh pain, quadriceps weakness, and an attenuated patellar tendon reflex.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Intervertebral Disk of Second Lumbar Vertebra (L2–L3)?
The intervertebral disk of the second lumbar vertebra (L2–L3) is a thick, highly resilient fibrocartilaginous cushion connecting the L2 and L3 vertebral bodies. It absorbs repetitive compressive stress from walking, lifting, and axial rotation, maintaining the intervertebral foramen height for the exiting L2 spinal nerve.
Why is the Intervertebral Disk of Second Lumbar Vertebra (L2–L3) clinically important?
Posterolateral herniation at L2–L3 compresses the L3 nerve root, presenting with radiating anterior thigh pain, quadriceps weakness, and an attenuated patellar tendon reflex.
Source & license
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