Structure of the Back
The back is a well-designed structure. It is made up of bones, muscles, nerves, and tissue. We rely on our backs for almost every move we make.3
The spine, or backbone, is a column of 33 bones called vertebrae. They extend from the base of the skull to the pelvis. The spine supports our head and trunk. The spine helps us maintain our upright posture. It also protects the main pathway of our nervous system—our spinal cord.4,9
The 3 Regions of the Spine
There are 3 types of vertebrae in the spine.4,9
- The 7 cervical vertebrae in the neck
- The 12 thoracic vertebrae in the upper and middle parts of the back
- The 5 largest and strongest bones in the lower back called lumbar vertebrae
At the base of the spine is the sacrum. The sacrum consists of 5 vertebrae. They are fused together. The coccyx, or tailbone, sits at the end of the sacrum.4,9
Between each vertebra is a band of cartilage. The cartilage is called an intervertebral disk. These disks serve as shock absorbers. We need such "padding" for even simple actions like walking and lifting.4
Mobility of the back is provided by a complex connection of muscles. They are all around the vertebrae. Together, muscles and ligaments keep the spine stable yet flexible. Stomach muscles provide support and strength for the back. These muscles help keep the spine upright. They counterbalance the back muscles.9
Making Exercise Part of Your Treatment Plan
Did you know certain exercises can help you recover from your back pain and get you moving again?4,9
See how you can exercise during treatment
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