A

THe Spinal Column

Divided in four parts, there are 33 vertebrae

Cervical vertebrae

Thoracic vertebrae

Lumbar vertebrae

Sacral vertebrae

What is the spinal column?

The spine is a set of articulated bones arranged one on top of the other. It is located in the back. Besides working as a support for the body, it protects the spinal chord.

The spinal chord transmits information between the brain and the body.

When the spinal column and the spinal chord are compromised by trauma or diseases, they may result in pain and even paralysis.

B

Did you know that the column is divided in 4 parts and has 33 vertebrae?

Cervical spine – Formed by 7 vertebrae. It’s the most flexible. It’s responsible for the neck movements, such as tilting your head.

Thoracic spine – Formed by 12 vertebrae. It’s located in the middle of the spine and also participates in the process of breathing.

Lumbar spine – Formed by 5 vertebrae. It’s the region of the spine that receives most of the pressure from movements, it’s the most harmed by bad postures.

Sacral spine – With 5 vertebrae united as one bone (sacral).

This bone is followed by the coccyx, which is formed by 4 vertebrae (fused together) and is located in the final part of the spine.

Spinal paravertebral muscle

C

How does the movement of the spinal column work?

The bones of your column wouldn’t be able to perform movements without the muscles and ligaments that surround them. The muscle contraction and extension in different directions allow movement to take place through its insertion points.

D

Hyperkyphosis (black arrow)

Abnormal rearward curvature of the middle part of the column, commonly known as “hunchback” in severe cases. It’s the most common problem for the elderly, mainly due to osteoporosis, and for people who work looking down for many years.

E

Hyperlordosis (red arrow)

Increased curves in the cervical and lumbar spines. Commonly found with expectant mothers that suffer backache.

F

Scoliosis

The spine is deviated to one side, forming an “S”. People who suffer from scoliosis must avoid carrying heavy objects with just one side of the body.

G

Why do we usually have backaches?

Because of muscle tension or irritation in the nerve termination of the muscles, ligaments and bones, or even traumas in these structures. They may be consequences of bad postures adopted.

What is Lumbago?

Lumbago means lower back pain in the lumbar spine. It’s a symptom and not a disease.

What to do?

Seek medical guidance.