Which direction do the superior articular facets of vertebrae face?

Which direction do the superior articular facets of vertebrae face?

• A. Posterior
• B. Anterior
• C. Superior
• D. Inferior

Answer: (A)

The superior articular facets face posteriorly. These facets form the zygapophysial joints by pairing with the inferior articular facets of the vertebra above. Their posterior orientation positions the joint surfaces behind the vertebral body, helping to stabilize the spine and guide movement, primarily allowing flexion and extension with limited rotation depending on the region. Anterior, superior, or inferior directions would not align with the way the adjacent vertebrae articulate, so those directions don’t describe the actual orientation.

The superior articular facets face posteriorly. These facets form the zygapophysial joints by pairing with the inferior articular facets of the vertebra above. Their posterior orientation positions the joint surfaces behind the vertebral body, helping to stabilize the spine and guide movement, primarily allowing flexion and extension with limited rotation depending on the region. Anterior, superior, or inferior directions would not align with the way the adjacent vertebrae articulate, so those directions don’t describe the actual orientation.