Spine anatomy refers to the central skeletal structure formed by bones called vertebrae that extend between the head and the pelvis in the human body. This structure creates a protective canal for the spinal cord, enables the body to remain upright, and contributes to the balanced execution of movement ability and load-bearing functions.<\/p>\n
The cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine regions form the three main functional segments of the spine anatomically. While the cervical region supports neck movements, the thoracic vertebrae are connected to the rib cage; the lumbar vertebrae, on the other hand, consist of strong and broad structures that carry most of the body weight.<\/p>\n
The intervertebral disc structure is one of the main components of spine anatomy that provides movement and flexibility. These discs consist of a gel-like nucleus pulposus and the surrounding annulus fibrosus layers; they absorb shock, reduce friction between vertebrae, and help the spine move flexibly.<\/p>\n
Spinal ligaments and the muscle system are supportive anatomical structures that ensure the stability of the spine. While ligaments maintain the connection and alignment of the vertebrae, paravertebral muscles control spinal movements and play an important role in maintaining posture, balancing the distribution of mechanical load.<\/p>\n
| Things You Should Know<\/td>\n | Information<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Definition of Spine<\/td>\n | The spine (vertebral column) is the bony structure that enables the body to stand upright, protects the central nervous system (spinal cord), and connects the head and torso.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Number of Vertebrae<\/td>\n | There are a total of 33 vertebrae: 7 cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (back), 5 lumbar (lower back), 5 sacral (fused, sacrum), and 4 coccygeal (fused, tailbone).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Cervical Vertebrae<\/td>\n | Located in the neck region (C1\u2013C7). C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) enable head movements. It is the most mobile region of the spine.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Thoracic Vertebrae<\/td>\n | Located in the chest region (T1\u2013T12). They are connected to the ribs and form the rib cage. Their mobility is limited.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Lumbar Vertebrae<\/td>\n | Located in the lower back region (L1\u2013L5). They carry the body\u2019s weight, therefore they are large and strong. They are often the source of lower back pain.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Sacral Vertebrae<\/td>\n | Formed by the fusion of 5 vertebrae (S1\u2013S5). They combine with the pelvis to create a solid structure.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Coccygeal Vertebrae<\/td>\n | Formed by the fusion of 4 small vertebrae. They form the tailbone. Their function is limited.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Discs (Intervertebral Disc)<\/td>\n | Cartilaginous structures located between each vertebra. They act as shock absorbers and provide mobility and flexibility between vertebrae.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Spinal Canal<\/td>\n | The canal located in the center of the vertebrae. It contains the spinal cord and allows the passage of nerves.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Ligaments and Muscles<\/td>\n | Structures that support and stabilize the spine. They enable movement and hold the vertebrae together.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Spinal Cord<\/td>\n | Nervous tissue extending from the brain within the spine. It carries information between the body and the brain.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Nerve Roots<\/td>\n | Nerve fibers that exit from the spinal cord and spread throughout the body through each vertebral level. They transmit motor and sensory signals.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Facet Joints<\/td>\n | Located at the back of the vertebrae. They enable the vertebrae to connect with each other and allow limited movement.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Scoliosis<\/td>\n | A structural disorder characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Lordosis and Kyphosis<\/td>\n | Lordosis: inward curvature of the lower back. Kyphosis: outward curvature of the upper back. They should be within normal limits; abnormalities lead to posture problems.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Spinal Health<\/td>\n | It can be maintained with factors such as regular exercise, correct posture, and proper lifting techniques. Conditions such as disc degeneration, herniation, and trauma can impair spinal health.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n |