Why do i have an extra vertbrae?

Humans typically have 33 vertebrae, including 7 cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (chest), 5 lumbar (lower back), 5 sacral (pelvis), and 4 coccygeal (tailbone) vertebrae. Having an extra vertebra is a variation from this typical structure and can occur for several reasons:

1. Congenital Anomaly: Some individuals may be born with an extra vertebra, known as a "transitional vertebra." This can happen due to genetic variations or disruptions during embryonic development. Transitional vertebrae can occur at various levels of the spine but are most commonly found in the lumbosacral region (between the lumbar and sacral vertebrae).

2. Spina Bifida Occulta: In some cases, an extra vertebra may be associated with spina bifida occulta, a condition in which the vertebrae do not fully close around the spinal cord. Spina bifida occulta is usually asymptomatic and may be discovered incidentally during imaging studies.

3. Scheuermann's Kyphosis: Scheuermann's kyphosis is a condition characterized by an excessive rounding (kyphosis) of the upper back. This can lead to the formation of wedge-shaped vertebrae, which may appear like an extra vertebra when viewed on an X-ray or imaging scan.

4. Degenerative Changes: Age-related degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis, can cause the vertebrae to become misaligned or compressed. This can result in the appearance of an extra vertebra on imaging studies, even though it is not an actual additional bone.

If you are concerned about having an extra vertebra or have noticed any unusual symptoms related to your spine, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate management.