Spine: Anatomy and Function

The spine (also called the spinal column, backbone, or vertebral column) is the central bony structure of the body. It supports the head, shoulders, and upper body while protecting the spinal cord.

Spine Structure

The spine is a series of bones called vertebrae that are stacked on top of one another. The vertebrae are separated by intervertebral discs, and protect the spinal cord (one of the most important — and largest — nerve bundles in our body.

Components

Vertebrae — The vertebrae are the individual bones of the spine, which are stacked on top of one another, and connected by ligaments and tendons. They are separated by intervertebral discs (cushions).

Spinal Cord — A bundle of nerves that runs through central canal of the vertebrae.

Ligaments and Tendons — Connect the bones and muscles to the spine. They provide stability and flexibility.

Sections

The spine is divided into several sections:

• Cervical Spine — The neck region (C1-C7)
• Thoracic Spine — The upper and middle back region (T1-T12)
• Lumbar Spine — The lower back region (L1-L5)
• Sacrum and Coccyx — The fused bones at the base of the spine (the tailbone).

Function

Support — The spine is the central axis of the body, the main supporting structure that connects our legs and pelvis to our shoulders, arms, and head. It allows us to stand upright, and bend. In addition, all of our organs are connected to our spine by our nervous system.

It allows us to stand upright and bend.

Protection — The vertebrae enclose and protect the spinal cord, which is the main pathway of nerve signals between the brain and rest of the body.

Movement — The spine allows for wide range of movement, including bending, twisting, and extending.