Spinal Anatomy for Low Back pain and Neck Pain- Spine Treatment in India

The spinalcolumn is one of the most vital parts of the human body, supporting our trunks and making all of our movements possible. When the spine is injured and its function is impaired the consequences can be painful and even disabling.

The spine has three major components:
• The spinal column (i.e., bones and discs)
• Neural elements (i.e., the spinal cord and nerve roots)
• Supporting structures (e.g., muscles and ligaments)

 The spinal column consists of:
• Seven cervical vertebrae (C1–C7) i.e. neck
• Twelve thoracic vertebrae (T1–T12) i.e. upper back
• Five lumbar vertebrae (L1–L5) i.e. lower back
• Five bones (that are joined or "fused," together in adults) to form the bony sacrum

Spinal anatomy is a remarkably intricate structure of strong bones, flexible ligaments and tendons, extensive muscles and highly sensitive nerves and nerve roots. Without question, the composition and function of the spine is a marvel of nature, providing us with a unique combination of:

• Structure to allow us to stand upright and move with precision
• Protection for the spinal cord and nerve roots to safely relay messages to and from the brain and the rest of the body
• Shock absorption accepts jolts and stress as we move about
• Flexibility, especially in the lower and upper spine, allowing us to bend and twist in a full variety of movements
• Strength provided by the bones, discs, joints and supportive muscles and connective tissue

Once back pain starts, however, the many benefits of this intricate anatomical construct can quickly be lost. Here are the basics of anatomical causes of spine pain:

Neck pain

The cervical spine (neck) supports the weight of your head and protects the nerves that come from your brain to the rest of the body. This section of the spine has seven vertebral bodies (bones) that get smaller – and provide more rotation - as they get closer to the base of the skull.
Most episodes of acute neck pain are due to a muscle, ligament or tendon strain, which is usually caused by a sudden force (e.g. whiplash) or from straining the neck (e.g. sleeping in the wrong position).

Upper backpain

The 12 vertebral bodies in the upper back that are attached to the rib cage make up the thoracic spine (middle or upper back) are firmly attached to the rib cage at each level, providing a great deal of stability and structural support, protecting the heart, lungs and other important organs within the chest.
Because there is little motion in the upper spine, it is rare to have pain caused by a herniated or degenerated thoracic disc. More common causes of upper back pain include irritation of the large back muscles and shoulder or joint dysfunction.

Lower back pain

Because the lower back carries the most load with the least structural support, it is the most likely to wear down or suffer injury.
Most episodes of lower back pain are caused by muscle strain. Even though this doesn't sound like a serious injury, the pain can be severe. Strong abdominal muscles and back muscles are important to provide support for this area of the spine and avoid injury.

Pain at the bottom of the spine

The iliac bones are part of the pelvis, and the sacrum is connected to this part of the pelvis by the sacroiliac joints. Pain can occur in the sacroiliac joints (where the sacrum connects to the pelvis), called sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and in the coccyx (tailbone), called coccydynia. Both of these conditions are more common in women than men.
The spine is an anatomically complicated structure. Knowing the basics can help you have a more meaningful discussion with your spine care provider.

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