![]() Any abnormality in the spinal alignment is called a spinal deformity. The curves provide strength and support to the spine, maintain balance and absorb shock. The side view of an adult spine resembles a natural S-shaped curve. CoccyxĪlso, called the tailbone, the coccyx is formed from the fusion of four bones and provides attachment for muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor. The sacrum is a single bone, formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebras together. The major function of the lumbar vertebrae is to carry the weight of the body, and absorb the stress of lifting and carrying heavy objects. These are situated in the lower back region and are larger in size. The Lumbar spine is made up of five lumbar vertebras numbered L1 to L5. ![]() They start from the upper chest and extend to the middle back, communicating with the ribs in the front of the chest to protect the heart and lungs. The thoracic spine is made up of twelve thoracic vertebrae, which are numbered T1 to T12. The neck supports the weight of the head and allows the greatest range of motion due to two specially shaped vertebrae, the ring-shaped atlas and the peg-shaped axis, which are the first two vertebrae. It begins at the base of the skull and is comprised of seven vertebrae numbered C1 to C7. The spine is categorized into 5 spinal segments: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccyx. ![]() The vertebrae are arranged one on top of the other to form the spine. Intervertebral discs function as shock absorbers for the spine.Īging and injury can cause degeneration of these discs and cause painful rubbing of the vertebral bones. The discs are composed of a tough, fibrous outer ring called the annulus fibrous and a soft, inner core called the nucleus pulposus. The intervertebral discs are flat, rounded soft tissue structures situated between two vertebral bodies of the spine. Each vertebra consists of two pair of facet joints: one pair called superior facets articulates with the vertebra above and the other pair, inferior facets articulates to the vertebra below. These are paired articular processes found at the vertebral arch. This is the tunnel formed at the center of the vertebra for the passage of the spinal cord. They provide a place for the attachment of the back muscles. These are bony protrusions located at the junction of the pedicle and lamina. These projections can be felt when touching the back. These are the bony projections that arise at right angles to the midline of the lamina. Lamina are a pair of flat arched bones that form the roof of the spinal canal and provide support and protection to the spinal cord at the back. These are two cylinder-shaped projections originating from the back of the vertebral body, connecting the front and back of the vertebra. It supports most of the load while standing and provides a platform for the attachment of the intervertebral discs. Each vertebra is made up of several parts: Vertebral body Twenty-four of these vertebrae articulate with each other, while the last nine are fused together. This spinal column is made up of approximately 33 vertebral bones stacked one on top of the other from the base of the skull to the pelvis. The vertebrae and discs form a column from your head to your pelvis providing symmetry and movement to the body. The spine is made up of bony segments called vertebrae, and fibrous tissue called intervertebral discs. Understanding the anatomy of the spine enhances your ability to discuss conditions of the spine and treatment options with your doctor. Having a well-functioning healthy back is essential for our mobility and ability to participate in various activities. It is supported by muscles, tendons and ligaments, and innervated by nerves that branch out from the centrally placed spinal cord. The spine is designed to give us stability and smooth movement, as well as providing a corridor of protection for the delicate spinal cord. The spine, also called the back bone, is made up of vertebral bones with cushioning intervertebral discs between them.
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