1- Anatomical Structure of the Human Spine Prof.Dr.Erbil Oğuz Istanbul Scoliosis School Spinal Station Research Group
Vertebrae: The spine is composed of 33 individual vertebrae stacked on top of one another . These vertebrae are categorized into five regions : a. Cervical (7 vertebrae ): Located in the neck region . b. Thoracic (12 vertebrae ): Situated in the upper and mid-back region , corresponding to the ribcage . c. Lumbar (5 vertebrae ): Found in the lower back , providing support for the upper body. d. Sacral (5 fused vertebrae ): These vertebrae are fused together to form the sacrum , which is part of the pelvis. e. Coccygeal (4 fused vertebrae ): These vertebrae are fused to form the coccyx , also known as the tailbone . Anatomical Structure of the Human Spine
Intervertebral Discs : These are soft , cushion-like discs located between each pair of adjacent vertebrae ( except for the first two cervical vertebrae ). Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. Anatomical Structure of the Human Spine
Spinal Cord : Running through the central canal of the vertebral column , the spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that connects the brain to the rest of the body. It serves as the primary communication pathway for transmitting sensory information to the brain and sending motor commands from the brain to the muscles . Anatomical Structure of the Human Spine
Nerves : Nerves branch out from the spinal cord through openings between the vertebrae called intervertebral foramina . These spinal nerves transmit signals between the spinal cord and various parts of the body, allowing for sensory perception and motor control . Anatomical Structure of the Human Spine
Curves : The spine has natural curves that provide stability and help distribute the body's weight evenly . There are four primary spinal curves : Cervical Curve : A slight forward curve in the neck region . Thoracic Curve : A backward curve in the upper back region . Lumbar Curve : A forward curve in the lower back region . Sacral Curve : A backward curve in the sacral and coccygeal regions . Anatomical Structure of the Human Spine
2- Functions of the Human Spine Prof.Dr.Erbil Oğuz Istanbul Scoliosis School Spinal Station Research Group
Functions of the Human Spine Support and Posture : The spine provides structural support for the body, allowing humans to stand upright . It plays a crucial role in maintaining good posture and balance .
Functions of the Human Spine Protection of the Spinal Cord : One of the most critical functions of the spine is to protect the spinal cord , which is essential for transmitting nerve signals and coordinating bodily functions .
Functions of the Human Spine Flexibility and Movement : The arrangement of vertebrae and intervertebral discs allows for a wide range of movements , including bending , twisting , and flexing . Each region of the spine contributes to specific types of movement .
Functions of the Human Spine Shock Absorption : Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers , cushioning the spine and reducing the impact of everyday activities and movements .
Functions of the Human Spine Weight Distribution: The natural curves of the spine help distribute the weight of the body evenly , reducing stress on individual vertebrae and discs .
Understanding the structure and functions of the human spine is essential for maintaining spinal health and preventing spinal disorders . Proper care , including maintaining good posture , staying active , and avoiding excessive strain , can help keep the spine healthy throughout life.