Spine & Neck Anatomy
The spine, or backbone, is a vital structure that supports the body’s weight, protects the spinal cord, and enables movement and flexibility. It consists of 33 vertebrae divided into five regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvic region), and coccygeal (tailbone). Between the vertebrae are intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers and allow for movement. Ligaments and muscles around the spine provide stability, while the spinal cord, housed within the vertebral column, transmits nerve signals between the brain and the body.
The spine also plays a key role in posture, balance, and mobility, facilitating actions such as bending, twisting, and standing upright. Its structure is both strong and flexible, allowing it to support the body’s weight while enabling a range of movements. However, this complexity also makes the spine susceptible to a variety of conditions, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative changes, which can affect mobility and cause discomfort.
