Anatom3DThird thoracic vertebra
Vertebra thoracica III · Třetí hrudní obratel
Skeleton
Looks like
An upper chest vertebra (T3); its spine lies about level with the inner end of the shoulder blade spine.
What it does
Supports the trunk, carries the third ribs and protects the spinal cord.
Keeping it well
A useful surface landmark. The thoracic spine is fairly stiff, so injuries here usually need major force.