Anatomical Relations
The ligamenta flava of the lumbar region are paired structures that adjoin the lamellae of adjacent vertebral foramina.
Related parts of the anatomy
Function
The ligamenta flava keep adjacent laminae together and prevent hyperflexion. They aid in the straightening of the flexed vertebral column. The relative elasticity of the ligamenta flava prevents the ligaments from causing stenosis of the spinal canal during movement.
Structure
The fibers of the ligamenta flava are predominantly elastic. The ligaments are thickest in the lumbar region which aids postural integrity. It is composed of superficial and a deep layer, in which the fibers in each layer travel in opposing directions.
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Ligamentum flavum
The ligamentum flavum (‘yellow ligament,’ named so owing to its color) is a discontinuous ligament that bridges the interlaminar space and forms part of the dorsal border of the spinal canal.
