Bones of the Spine

The bones of the spine are called vertebrae. Each vertebra is a complexly formed bone with many features. On the anterior (front) of a vertebra, a thick, rounded platform called the “body” supports the intervertebral discs. The laminae and pedicles form the spinal canal through which the spinal cord travels. Several spiny projections called articular processes branch off the posterior (back) of the bone. The spinous process is the projection you can feel through your skin when running your hand along your spine.

The vertebrae are articulated, or connected, by the facet (zygapophysial) joints. It is the structure of the vertebrae, in conjunction with the facet joints, intervertebral discs, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, that give you the flexibility to move your back and neck in many directions.

Regions of the Spine

• Cervical – The cervical region (neck) consists of seven vertebrae, which are structurally the smallest in the spine. The atlas (C1) supports the head. The purpose of the axis (C2) is to pivot, allowing the turning of the head. The remaining vertebrae, C3-C7, give the neck a high level of mobility to move the head left, right, backwards, and forwards.
• Thoracic – The thoracic (mid-back) vertebrae, T1-12, may be considered the most stable bones of the spine. This region does not have a lot of flexibility and is further supported on either side by the attached rib cage.
• Lumbar – The lumbar (lower back) region has the largest vertebrae in the spine, known as L1-L5 (although some people have six lumbar vertebrae). The lower back is responsible for bearing the body’s weight and operating with extreme flexibility. As a result, many back conditions can occur in the lumbar region, particularly in the L4/L5 and L5/S1 junctions.
• Sacrum – The sacrum is a shield-shaped bone that rests between the iliac crests of the pelvis. It is made up of five fused vertebrae (S1-S5) and connects with L5 above and the coccyx below.
• Coccyx – The coccyx, or tailbone, consists of three to five fused vertebrae and is located at the very bottom of the spine. Many important muscles and ligaments attach to the coccyx.

Maintaining Spine Health

It is important to keep the bones of the spine in good working order, as painful back and neck conditions can develop. Maintain a healthy diet and weight, as excess weight can put added stresses on the spine. Refrain from smoking cigarettes. The toxins released into the body when smoking have been linked to faster intervertebral disc break down. Be sure to sit, stand, and even sleep with the proper posture or spinal alignment, and always follow correct lifting procedures when picking up or moving heavy items.