The spine is one of the most important parts of our bodies. It plays an integral role in providing structure and support, as well as protecting your spinal cord. The spinal cord is also crucial when it comes to movement and sensations, as it connects your brain to the rest of your body and aids the transmission of signals throughout the nervous system.
One of the best ways to reduce or prevent back pain is to better understand the anatomy of your spine and how it functions. Let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of this important body part with this informative blog from The Hillsborough Chiropractic Clinic.
The spinal column
Your spine is comprised of 24 small bones, known collectively as the vertebrae. We are born with 33, but some of the vertebra at the bottom end of the spine fuse together as we grow and develop.
These interlocking bones are stacked on top of each other to form the spinal column. A soft cushion sits between each vertebra, which helps to absorb pressure and prevent the bones from rubbing against each other. These cushions are called discs.
Spinal joints
Each vertebra is held together by groups of ligaments, while tendons connect muscles to the vertebrae. The spinal column has joints, just like any other part of your skeleton - these are called facet joints. The facet joints link each vertebra together and enable them to move flexibly against or alongside each other.
The spinal cord
The spinal cord sits inside the spinal column and is protected by the vertebrae. Each vertebra has a hole in the centre, creating a hollow tube that extends through the spinal column.
The spinal cord is made up of nerves that carry signals from your brain to the rest of your body, and vice versa. Your nervous system branches out through spaces in between each vertebra. Your spinal cord and nervous system are imperative to the proper functioning of your body. This is why serious neck and back injuries can be so concerning, as they can damage the spinal cord.
The three sections of your spine
Your spine is comprised of three segments: the cervical spine, the thoracic spine and the lumbar spine. The cervical is the upper part of the spine, made up of seven vertebrae. The thoracic is the middle portion, consisting of 12 vertebrae, and the lower part of the spine is the lumbar, usually made up of 5 vertebrae.
Below the lumbar is the sacrum, which connects the spine to the pelvis, and the coccyx (tailbone), which plays an important role in supporting your weight when you sit.
The cervical spine curves inward, the thoracic curves outward, and the lumbar curves inward again, creating an S-like curve in the spine. Each section plays a role in distributing weight and providing strength.
Do you think your spinal health could be boosted through chiropractic adjustment? The Hillsborough Chiropractic Clinic are well-equipped to relieve pain and discomfort and help you maintain a strong and healthy spine. We can also advise on lifestyle changes that will help you prioritise your spinal health going forwards. Get in touch today to discuss your needs or to book your free screening.
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