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Updated: Apr 22, 2026
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Precision Measurements and Parametric Models of Vertebral Endplates
Published on: September 17, 2019
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Vertebral shape and spinal osteoarthritis in humans: A 3D analysis
Dean Anthony Arcega1,2, Kimberly Anne Plomp1, Mark Collard1
1School of Archaeology, University of the Philippines Diliman, Albert Hall, Lakandula Street, Quezon City, Manila, 1101, Philippines.
Summary
Vertebral shape significantly influences the development of spinal osteoarthritis (SOA), a common cause of back pain. Specific vertebral morphotypes increase SOA risk, highlighting shape as a key factor in disease development.
Area of Science:
- Paleopathology
- Biomechanics
- Skeletal Biology
Background:
- Spinal osteoarthritis (SOA) is a primary cause of back pain, yet its developmental factors remain unclear.
- Vertebral shape's role in SOA pathogenesis is largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between vertebral shape and the incidence of spinal osteoarthritis.
- To test if specific vertebral morphotypes, including facet joint characteristics, increase SOA risk.
Main Methods:
- Geometric morphometrics applied to 3D models of thoracic (T12) and lumbar (L1) vertebrae from 143 T12 and 136 L1 specimens.
- Statistical analyses including MANOVAs, DFAs, and PCA to compare vertebral shape between individuals with and without SOA.
Main Results:
- Vertebrae from individuals with SOA exhibited a significantly different morphotype compared to unaffected individuals.
- Smaller interfacet distances were associated with SOA, partially supporting the hypothesis.
- Other identified traits linked to suboptimal spinal biomechanics were also associated with SOA.
Conclusions:
- Vertebral shape is a significant factor associated with the development of spinal osteoarthritis.
- Specific vertebral morphotypes, particularly those with altered biomechanical properties, increase the probability of developing SOA.
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