Overview
The spine is a complex structure that supports the upper body and protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord consists of nerves that send and receive messages between the brain and the rest of the body.
Areas of the Spine
Areas of the spine include the cervical region (neck), the thoracic region (middle back), and the lumbar region (lower back).
In the adult body, the spine has 33 bones called vertebrae. Discs positioned between each vertebra act as shock absorbers for the spine. Ligaments, tendons, and muscles surround the spine and help keep it aligned.
Spine Movement
Our spines allow us to bend forward and back, side to side, and rotate in a twisting motion.
Any of these movements can lead to problems caused by poor posture, a fall, a car accident, muscle strain, a herniated disc, or other spine conditions.