When encouraging or applauding someone, we always say keep it up. The spinal cord is the most important part of the human body. In fact, it is safe to say that the human body depends on this single particle. But as mentioned above, is it really possible for a person to live with a stiff spine? Let’s take a closer look at this blog.

The human spine is made up of three segments. These segments form three natural curves when viewed from the side. The c-shaped curves of the neck and the lower back, which is called the cervical spine and the lumbar spine respectively, and the reverse c-shaped curve of the chest is called the thoracic spine. Let’s understand the structure of the spine-

Vertebrae
The human spine is made up of small bones known as vertebrae. These are the bones, which are assembled on top of one another which creates the natural curves. The spinal cord and nerve roots get protected by these bones as they create a canal. There is a total of 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, and 5 lumbar vertebrae.

Spinal Cord and Nerves
The spinal cord travels through the middle part of each stacked vertebra, called the central canal which extends from the skull to your lower back. Nerves carry messages between the brain and muscles by branching out from the spinal cord through openings in the vertebrae.

Muscles and Ligaments
Muscles work to stabilize and support the spine. Also, the ligament keeps the spine in good shape and helps in coordination.

Intervertebral Disks
These sit in between the vertebrae. They are flat and round. These made up of two main components- Nucleus pulposus and Annulus fibrosus. These disks act as shock absorbers for the spine as they maintain the strength of the spine by expanding when required.

Facet Joints
There are small joints between the back of the vertebrae that help the human spine move. There are four facet joints associated with each vertebra. The facet joints are important as they allow rotation of the spine.

This is the anatomy of the spine. I hope this information adds value to your knowledge. Watch out this space for more such information. Greetings for SYS Medtech International PVT. LTD.