The spine is part of this organ system. The structure of the human spine, its departments and functions

The human spine, which consists of 32-34 rows of vertebrae and is also called the "vertebral column" is the basis of the entire human skeleton. In this case, the vertebrae are interconnected by intervertebral discs, joints and ligaments.

What is the structure of the human spine?

There is a generally accepted division, according to which certain parts of the human spine are distinguished. In addition, each of the departments has a certain number of vertebrae. For convenience, the vertebrae are indicated by Latin letters (according to the first letters of the Latin names of the departments) and numbers that indicate the number of the vertebra in the department. It is also worth remembering that the numbering of the vertebrae is carried out from top to bottom.

So, how many sections are there in the human spine? There are 5 departments in total:

The human cervical spine (which is also called the cervical part) consists of only 7 vertebrae, with the corresponding numbering from C1 to C7. In this case, it should be taken into account that the occipital bone of the skull is conditionally considered a “zero” vertebra and has the number C0. A feature of this department is its high mobility;
There are 12 vertebrae in the human thoracic spine, numbered from T1 to T12. At the same time, there are alternative options in which D (D1-D12) and Th (Th1-Th12) are used instead of "T". This department is the most inactive, the loads on it are not so great, but it is he who serves as the main support for the chest;
in the lumbar region there are only 5 vertebrae numbered from L1 to L5. It is this department that is more often than others the site of the appearance of various diseases of the spine, simply for the reason that it has the maximum load, at the same time it must be quite mobile;
sacral - 5 vertebrae, which are numbered from S1 to S5.
the coccygeal section includes from 3 to 5 vertebrae, numbered from Co1 to Co5, but in adults they fuse into a single coccygeal bone.

The following picture shows how closely the various parts of the spine are connected with other human organs:

Curves of the human spine - what is the reason for their need?

Let's look at the skeleton of the human spine from the side and it will immediately become noticeable that the "vertebral column" is not a "pillar" in the truest sense of the word - it has certain curves. Moreover, such bends are quite physiological, they are not a sign of the presence of any disease. So, considering the spine, it can be noted that:

in the cervical region, the forward bending of the spine is noticeable, which is also called cervical lordosis;
in the thoracic region, the back bend of the spine is noticeable, as a result of which it is formed;
the lumbar region has the same bend as the cervical region, as a result of which it is formed.

The human spine is formed in this way, since these curves allow the spine to act as a shock absorber, thus softening various shocks and protecting the brain from concussion during movement (when walking, jumping or running).

Functions of the human spine

In addition to the shock-absorbing (which is provided by the natural curves of the spine) and supporting (for the rest of the human skeleton) functions, the spine must also provide the necessary mobility and degree of freedom for a person, while remaining stable enough to protect nerve endings and internal organs from damage. .

The fulfillment of these contradictory tasks is provided by the anatomy of the human spine. To provide the necessary mobility and improve the shock-absorbing function, there are intervertebral discs, which are complex cartilaginous formations. Discs also play a role by connecting the vertebrae together. In ensuring the mobility of the spine, the joints and ligaments located between them play a significant role. At the same time, they also act as a kind of limiter that prevents excessive mobility.

Also one of the determining factors in the mobility of the entire spine are strong muscles of the back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and hips. The interaction of all these muscles provides the necessary regulation of the mobility of the spine.

It should be noted that despite the fact that the shape of the human spine allows it to perform a shock-absorbing function, it is extremely important that all muscles and ligaments develop correctly, as well as sufficient “nutrition” and the supply of intervertebral discs with the necessary loads and nutrients. Violation of this delicate balance always leads to one thing - the appearance of pain, which are symptoms of a disease of the human spine.

"Bricks" of the spine - vertebrae

The main component of the human spine is the vertebrae. It is a kidney-shaped or round body and an arc that closes the vertebral foramen. Articular processes also depart from it, which serve for articulation with the nearest vertebrae. We have also already said how many vertebrae there are in the human spine - 32-34.

The vertebrae themselves are composed of a compact outer and spongy inner substance. At the same time, the strength of the vertebrae is ensured precisely by the bone bars of the spongy substance. The outer compact substance of the vertebra has great hardness and ensures the strength and stability of the vertebra to external influences. Also inside each vertebra is the red bone marrow that carries the function of hematopoiesis.

The human spine skeleton suggests some differences in appearance vertebrae in different departments. So, for example, the lumbar vertebrae are very massive, but the cervical vertebrae have smaller bodies and their processes are much less developed. This is due to the fact that the cervical region only has to support the weight of the head, while the lumbar region essentially bears the weight of the entire body.

The thoracic vertebrae have a special function as they form the ribcage together with the ribs and sternum. In this case, the ribs that are attached to the front side of the processes are separate bones and are not part of the vertebra or its processes. In addition, the joints provide little mobility both between the ribs themselves and between the vertebrae and ribs relative to each other. At the same time, this degree of freedom is very small, which is why the thoracic spine is the most inactive.

However, when it comes to, you need to remember that it is in the thoracic region that problems manifest themselves least of all precisely due to its low mobility. Even some species in this department are completely asymptomatic, just as education can proceed asymptomatically.

The structure of the skeleton of the human spine does not imply such concessions when problems arise in the cervical or lumbar spine - there the development of the disease without pain syndromes is almost impossible. In this case, various neurological symptoms almost always appear, from fairly harmless (tingling, burning, numbness, etc.) to very serious ones. For example, the development of diseases of the spine in the cervical region often leads to an increase blood pressure, and may disrupt the work internal organs pelvis.

The spinal column is the most important structure of our body. It performs supporting and motor functions. Due to its curved shape, the spinal column is resilient, flexible, and also helps to mitigate the tremors that can occur during physical exertion. Features of the structure and shape provide a person with a straight walk, and also maintain the center of gravity.

The structure of the spine is truly flawless and perfect. First, let's talk about the functional abilities of the spinal column.

Functions

The spinal column is the main support. Without it, it would be difficult to imagine human life. It would simply be impossible. When violations occur in his work, it becomes difficult for a person not only to walk, but even to stand.

Let's talk about the main functions in more detail.

Just as the strength of the entire building depends on the foundation, so the health of a person directly depends on the condition of the spine.

Support function

The human spine is represented as a flexible rod. It acts as a support for the shoulder, upper limbs, as well as the organs of the sternum and peritoneum. This is not only the axis, but also the foundation of our body, as it holds the head, shoulder blades, collarbones, ribs, upper limbs.

Protection function

Thoracic

The thoracic region consists of 12 vertebrae. It is curved in a C-shape. The posterior wall of the chest is directly connected to the thoracic region. In this section, the spine has limited mobility. This is due to the fact that the chest is nearby, as well as the fact that the intervertebral discs are of low height, and the spinous processes are of considerable length.

Lumbar

The lumbar region contains the five largest vertebrae. The lumbar dress has a smooth bend, and is also a link connecting the thoracic and sacral regions. The entire upper body presses on him, so he experiences considerable stress.

Sacrum

The sacrum is a triangular bone that is formed by 5 fused vertebrae. The sacrum connects the spine to the pelvic bones.

Coccyx

The coccygeal region is the lower part of the spinal column. It looks like a curved inverted pyramid. The coccyx attaches the muscles and ligaments that are related to the genitourinary system. It distributes the physical load on the pelvic structures, and is also a fulcrum.

Studying the structure of the spine, once again you are convinced that there is nothing superfluous in our body.

Muscular system of the spine

The spine is a frame with paravertebral muscles of the abdominal cavity and back. There are such back muscles: deep and superficial.

Muscles attach directly to the vertebrae and help them move

The superficial muscles of the back take an active part in the processes of straightening the back, and also help the shoulder girdle in fulfilling its role. This muscle group includes:

latissimus dorsi;
rhomboid muscle;
trapezius muscle;
dentate muscles.

Spine and internal organs

The central canal is located in the spinal canal nervous system, consisting of cells, as well as nerve fibers.

The spinal cord is surrounded by three membranes:

hard shell;
arachnoid;
soft shell.

The spinal cord originates in the brain and ends at the level of the first and second vertebrae of the lumbar region.

Each segment of the spinal cord corresponds to a specific part of the human body. Such functioning is possible due to the work of nerve impulses passing from the spinal cord directly to the internal organs.

Any organ of our body at one time approaches the stage of aging, and the spine is no exception.

The spinal column is adversely affected bad habits as well as past injuries. In addition, due to age-related changes, the intervertebral discs lose their ability to perform depreciation properties due to dehydration. Also, over time, the bones and ligaments become less flexible and begin to thicken. Degenerative changes can begin in the disc, which are the main reason for the development of pathologies.

Curvature of the spinal column

Despite the fact that the spine is called the "vertebral column", it bears little resemblance to the column. If you look at it from the side, you can see that it is curved. Such bends are not a pathology. This physiological features buildings.

Concerning cervical, then it is arched forward, this is the so-called "cervical lordosis". If we talk about the thoracic region, then, on the contrary, it is curved back, which is called "thoracic kyphosis". And the lumbar also has lordosis, that is, it is arched forward.

Given all of the above, we can make an uncompromising conclusion that the spine is the most important part of our body. It must be protected!

Support the head and stiffen the skeleton.
Maintain the body in an upright position.
Protect, in which the nerves pass, connecting the brain with other parts of the body.
Serve as an attachment point for muscles and ribs.
Absorb shocks and shocks.
Allow the body to perform a variety of movements.

Structure

(7 , C1-C7);
(12, Th1—Th12);
(5 , L1—L5);
(5 , S1-S5);
(3-5, Co1-Co5).

Normally, when viewed from the side, it has an S-shape. This form provides an additional shock-absorbing function. In this case, the cervical and represent an arc facing the convex side forward, and - an arc facing back.

are the bones that form. The front part has a cylindrical shape and is called the body. The body bears the main support load, since our weight is mainly distributed to the front. Behind the body in the form of a semicircle is an arch with several processes. The body and arch form the vertebral foramen. In the spinal column, respectively, the vertebral foramina are located one above the other, forming the spinal canal. In the spinal canal is located, blood vessels, fatty tissue.

The spinal canal is formed not only by bodies and arches, but also by ligaments. The most important ligaments are the posterior longitudinal and yellow ligaments. The posterior longitudinal ligament in the form of a strand connects all the bodies behind, and the yellow ligament connects adjacent arcs. It has a yellow pigment, from which it got its name. When the joints are destroyed, the ligaments tend to compensate for the increased pathological mobility (instability), resulting in ligament hypertrophy. This process leads to a decrease in the lumen of the spinal canal, in which case even small hernias or bone growths () can also compress the roots. This condition is called spinal stenosis (hyperlink to spinal stenosis at the vertebral level). To expand the spinal canal, an operation is performed to decompress the nerve structures.

is the highest part of the spinal column. It consists of 7 . has a physiological bend ( physiological) in the form of the letter "C", facing the convex side forward. is the most mobile department. This mobility gives us the ability to perform a variety of neck movements, as well as turns and tilts of the head.

In the transverse processes of the cervical there are openings in which the vertebral arteries pass. These blood vessels are involved in the blood supply to the brain stem, cerebellum, and the occipital lobes of the cerebral hemispheres. With the development of instability in, the formation of hernias that compress the vertebral artery, with painful spasms vertebral artery as a result of irritation of the damaged cervical, there is a lack of blood supply to the indicated parts of the brain. This is manifested by headaches, dizziness, "flies" before the eyes, unsteady gait, and occasionally speech disorders. This condition is called vertebro-basilar insufficiency.

Damage can occur as a result direct hit in the area, and with transcendental flexion or extensor movement of the head. The latter mechanism is called "whiplash injury" in car accidents or "diver injury" from hitting the head on the bottom while diving aground. This type of traumatic injury is very often accompanied by spinal cord injury and can be fatal.

consists of 12 . Normally, it looks like the letter "C", facing the bulge back (). participates in the formation of the posterior chest wall. Ribs are attached to the bodies and transverse processes of the chest with the help of joints. In the anterior sections, the ribs are connected into a single rigid frame with the help of the sternum, forming the chest. in the thoracic region they have a very small height, which significantly reduces the mobility of this department. In addition, mobility

Back pain can be experienced not only by the elderly, but also by teenagers and even infants. This pain can be caused by many reasons: both fatigue and all kinds of diseases that could develop over time or be from birth.

In order to better understand where pain sensations come from and what they can mean, as well as to know how to get rid of them correctly, information about the structure of the spine, its departments and functions will help. In the article we will consider the anatomy of this department, we will tell you in detail what functions the spine performs and how to keep it healthy.

The spinal column has an S-shape, due to which it has elasticity - therefore, a person is able to take various postures, bend down, turn around, and so on. If the intervertebral discs did not consist of cartilaginous tissue, which is capable of being flexible, then the person would be constantly fixed in one position.

The shape of the spine and its structure ensure balance and upright posture. The entire human body, its limbs and head “holds” on the spinal column.

The spine is a chain of vertebrae articulated by intervertebral discs. The number of vertebrae varies from 32 to 34 - it all depends on individual development.

Departments of the spine

The spinal column is divided into five sections:

Name	Description	Image
cervical	It consists of seven vertebrae. It is the most mobile, because a person constantly makes all kinds of movements, turns and tilts of the neck and head. This department itself is shaped like the letter "C", and the convex side faces forward. Blood vessels pass through the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae, providing blood supply to the brain and cerebellum. If any damage occurs in the cervical region, for example, hernias or fractures, naturally, blood circulation in this area is severely disturbed, and brain cells can die due to insufficient supply of blood and other nutrients, a person may lose spatial orientation (because in the area the head is the vestibular apparatus), suffer from severe headaches, and in his eyes often appear "goosebumps". The upper cervical vertebrae, called Atlant and Axis, are somewhat different in structure from all others. The first does not have a vertebral body, but consists of anterior and posterior arches, which are connected by thickenings consisting of bone tissue. The second is distinguished by a special bone process, which is called the odontoid. Thanks to him, the entire cervical region can be flexible so that a person can turn his head.
Thoracic	Consists of 12 vertebrae where the ribs are attached to form a complete ribcage. It is in this area that most of the main internal organs are located, and therefore the thoracic region is practically motionless. Despite this, it is possible to damage it, and this is very dangerous: along with this, other body systems can also be damaged. The bodies of the vertebrae tend to increase, since they are subjected to some load - this is due to the location of the organs and breathing. Also, the vertebrae in this section are distinguished by the fact that they have special costal half-holes (two for each), into which the ribs themselves “enter”. Outwardly, this department also resembles the letter "C", but, unlike the cervical, it is convex back.
Lumbar	Consists of five vertebrae. Despite the fact that the department is rather small, it performs the most important functions in the entire musculoskeletal system, namely, it takes almost all the load that is placed on the body. And the vertebrae here are the largest. True, it also happens when a certain pathology occurs - lumbarization, in which the sixth vertebra appears in the lumbar region of a person, which does not carry any benefit, but does not interfere with normal life. The lumbar region has a physiological lordosis - this is a slight normal bend forward. If it exceeds the permissible norm, then the person suffers from some kind of disease. It is the lumbar region that is most responsible for the mobility of the legs, while experiencing the load from the upper half of the body. Therefore, you should be extremely careful when doing any physical exercises or lifting weights, because if this is done incorrectly, it is the lumbar region that will suffer - the intervertebral discs begin to “wear out” in it, which leads to hernias that so often occur in this area.
sacral department	Consists of five vertebrae that fuse and form into a triangular bone. It performs the function of connecting the upper part of the spinal column with the pelvic bone. True, they do not grow together immediately, but only by the age of 25 - in infants and adolescents, the sacral section still has some mobility, and therefore it is vulnerable to injury. The sacrum has several openings through which nerve tissues pass, due to which nervous “sensitivity” is possessed bladder, rectum and lower extremities.
coccygeal department	Consists of three or five vertebrae - depending on individual characteristics. In fact, it is rudimentary, but at the same time it performs a number of important functions. For example, in women, it is mobile, which helps in carrying a baby and during childbirth. In all people, it is a link for the muscles and ligaments that are involved in the work of the genitourinary system and intestines. The coccyx also regulates the correct extension of the hips and helps to distribute the load correctly, especially when a person is in a sitting position: it is the coccyx that allows the spine not to collapse when a person is sitting, although the load on his spine is huge. If the coccygeal department did not “take over” part of it for itself, the spine would be easily injured.

Video - A visual representation of the structure of the spine

Functions of the spine

The spinal column has several functions:

Support function. The spinal column is the support for all limbs and the head, and it is on it that the greatest pressure of the whole body is exerted. The supporting function is also performed by discs and ligaments, however, the spine takes on the largest weight - about 2/3 of the total. This weight he moves to the legs and pelvis. Thanks to the spine, everything is combined into one whole: the head, and the chest, and the upper and lower limbs, as well as the shoulder girdle.
Protective function. The spine performs the most important function - it protects the spinal cord from various injuries. It is the "control center", which ensures the proper functioning of the muscles and skeleton. The spinal cord is under the strongest protection: it is surrounded by three bone membranes, reinforced with ligaments and cartilage tissue. The spinal cord controls the work of the nerve fibers that depart from it, so we can say that each vertebra is responsible for the work of a certain part of the body. This system is very well coordinated, and if any of its components is violated, the consequences will reverberate in other areas of the human body.

motor function. Thanks to the elastic cartilaginous intervertebral discs located between the vertebrae, a person has the ability to move and turn in any direction.
damping function. The spine, due to its curvature, dampens the dynamic loads on the body when walking, jumping or traveling in transport. Thanks to such depreciation, the spinal column creates pressure opposite to the support, and the human body does not suffer. Muscles also play an important role: if they are in a developed state (for example, thanks to regular sports or physical education), then the spine experiences less pressure.

Detailed structure of the vertebrae

The vertebrae have a complex structure, with different parts spine, they may differ.

If you want to know in more detail what their functions are, you can read an article about it on our portal.

The vertebra consists of a bony bar, composed of an internal spongy substance, and an external substance, which is a lamellar bone tissue.

Each substance has its own function. Spongy substance is responsible for strength and good resistance, and compact, external, is elastic and allows the spine to withstand various loads. Inside the vertebra itself is the red brain, which is responsible for blood formation. Bone tissue is constantly renewed, due to which it does not lose strength long years. If the metabolism is established in the body, then there are no problems with the musculoskeletal system. And when a person is constantly engaged in moderate physical activity, tissue renewal occurs more rapidly than with a sedentary lifestyle - this is also a guarantee of spinal health.

The structure of the vertebra

The vertebra consists of the following elements:

vertebral body;
legs, which are located on both sides of the vertebra;
two transverse and four articular processes;
spinous process;
the spinal canal, in which the spinal cord is located;
vertebral arches.

The vertebral body is in front. The part on which the processes are located is behind. The back muscles are attached to them - thanks to them, the spine can bend and not collapse. In order for the vertebrae to be mobile and not erased against each other, intervertebral discs are located between them, which consist of cartilage tissue.

The spinal canal, which is a conductor for the spinal cord, is made up of vertebral foramina, which are created by the arches of the vertebrae attached to them from behind. They are necessary in order for the spinal cord to be as protected as possible. It stretches from the very first vertebra to the middle of the lumbar region, and then the nerve roots extend from it, which also need protection. There are 31 such roots in total, and they spread throughout the body, which provides the body with sensitivity in all departments.

The arc is the basis for all processes. The spinous processes extend backward from the arch and serve to limit the range of motion and protect the spine. The transverse processes are located on the sides of the arc. They have special openings through which veins and arteries pass. The articular processes are located two above and below the vertebral arch, and are necessary for the proper functioning of the intervertebral discs.

It is organized in such a way that the veins and arteries passing in the region of the spine, and most importantly, the spinal cord and all the nerve endings extending from it, are protected as much as possible. To do this, they are in such a dense bone shell, which is not easy to destroy. Nature has done everything to protect the vital parts of the body, and man can only keep the spine intact.

What are intervertebral discs?

Intervertebral discs are made up of three main parts:

fibrous ring. This is a bone formation, consisting of many layers of plates, which are connected using collagen fibers. It is this structure that provides it with the highest strength. However, with impaired metabolism or insufficient mobility, tissues can become thinner, and if strong pressure is applied to the spine, the annulus fibrosus is destroyed, which leads to various diseases. It also provides communication with neighboring vertebrae and prevents their displacement.
Pulpous nucleus. It is located inside the fibrous ring, which tightly surrounds it. The core is a formation similar in structure to jelly. It helps the spine withstand pressure and supplies it with all the nutrients and fluid it needs. Also, the nucleus pulposus creates additional shock absorption due to its function of absorbing and releasing fluid.
With the destruction of the fibrous ring, the nucleus can protrude - such a process in medicine is called an intervertebral hernia. A person experiences severe pain, because the protruding fragment presses on the nerve processes passing nearby. The symptoms and consequences of a hernia are described in detail in other publications.
The disc is covered from below and from above end plates, which provide additional strength and resilience.

If the intervertebral disc is destroyed in any way, then the ligaments located next to the spine and included in the spinal segment try in every possible way to compensate for the malfunction - a protective function is triggered. Because of this, hypertrophy of the ligaments develops, which can lead to compression of the nerve processes and the spinal cord. This condition is called spinal stenosis, and the only way to get rid of it is through surgical treatment.

Facet joints

Between the vertebrae, in addition to the intervertebral discs, there are also facet joints. Otherwise, they are called arcuate. Neighboring vertebrae are connected using two such joints - they lie on both sides of the vertebral arch. The cartilage of the facet joint is very smooth, thanks to which the friction of the vertebrae is significantly reduced, and this neutralizes the possibility of injury. The facet joint includes in its structure the meniscoid - these are processes enclosed in the joint capsule. The meniscoid is the conductor of blood vessels and nerve endings.

Facet joints produce a special fluid that nourishes both the joint itself and the intervertebral disc, and also “lubricates” them. It's called synovial.

Thanks to this complex system vertebrae are free to move. If the facet joints are destroyed, then the vertebrae will come together and undergo abrasion. Therefore, the importance of these articular formations is difficult to overestimate.

Possible diseases

The structure and structure of the spine is very complex, and if at least something in it stops working correctly, then all this affects the health of the whole organism. There are many different diseases that can occur in the spine.

Name	Image	Description
		Otherwise, this disease is called ankylosing spondylitis. Due to an infection or antigen activation in a person, the intervertebral joints become inflamed, and with the development of the disease, the entire spine gradually begins to become covered with calcium growths, which eventually become hard bone tissue. A person becomes as if "chained" in bone chains, because of which he cannot take any position - he has to constantly be in a bent position. Most often, this disease occurs in men, but it also occurs in women. You can read more about this disease at the link indicated in the first column.
		A herniated disc can form along various reasons: for example, due to excessive overvoltage, or vice versa - due to seated image life in the absence of moderate physical activity. It can occur in a person of absolutely any age. A spinal hernia is a nucleus pulposus protruding from the annulus fibrosus. You can also get rid of it by a non-surgical method - you can read more about the treatment at the link indicated in the first column.
		This disease is not very common, however, unfortunately, it is one of the most dangerous. Spinal cancer may present in various types depending on where it originated. If it is detected in time and treatment is started, then it will be possible to get rid of it without surgery and with minimal health losses. No one is immune from such a disease, but if preventive measures are taken, the risk of getting cancer is significantly reduced. You can read about what can be done to cure such a disease or avoid it in the article, the link to which is in the first column.
Osteochondrosis		Osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases. It most often occurs in people over the age of 35. Symptoms of it are observed in 9 out of 10 people. Fortunately, you can get rid of such a disease quite simply, and if you do it as quickly as possible, then there will be no unpleasant consequences. And to avoid it, it is enough to avoid a sedentary lifestyle and engage in physical education as often as possible - of course, in moderate doses. Osteochondrosis is characterized by discomfort in the back, impaired posture, weakness and some loss of sensation.
Osteoporosis		Chronic bone disease, which is characterized by increased fragility of bones. Consequently, patients suffering from osteoporosis are more at risk of various fractures and spinal injuries. It appears due to a lack of calcium, deterioration of metabolism and a sedentary lifestyle. In a patient with osteoporosis, a fracture can occur even from a minor injury, such as a fall or a sharp turn. Very often, people live with osteoporosis and do not even suspect that they have such a disease, since its symptoms are quite common: fatigue, occasional back pain, and problems with nails and teeth. Osteoporosis can be treated with physical exercise and taking vitamins and medications.

Spine health

Reading about numerous diseases, people ask themselves: how to keep your spine healthy? For this, there are certain preventive measures that are advised to adhere to people of any age.

Take care of your posture: for this you can walk for 5-10 minutes a day with a book on your head, and outside the home just control the position of your back. You can set yourself a reminder on your smartphone in order to never forget about a straight back.
Exercise. Going to the gym a couple of times a week or exercising at home will be beneficial if done correctly and in moderation.

Watch your weight. Excess weight creates a strong load on the spine, and, in addition, brings a lot of other problems. It is better to get rid of it in time and control nutrition.
Follow the removal of toxins. To do this, you need to drink plenty of water, as well as eat right. Due to the accumulation of toxins, the metabolism can slow down, which will lead to diseases of the spine.
Avoid unnecessary weight lifting. It's best not to carry heavy objects unless you're prepared to do so.

Summing up

The structure of the spine is the most complex formation. Nature has created the musculoskeletal system so that all important parts of the body are protected. It remains for a person to maintain the health of the spine throughout life.

If you want to know in more detail, namely the lumbar region, you can read an article about this on our portal.

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The human spine is a complex skeletal system that provides support for bipedal locomotion and the physiological functioning of internal organs. All parts of the human spine have a peculiar specific structure and consist of 32-34 vertebrae arranged in a row, forming the basis of the human skeleton. Separate elements (vertebrae) are connected by joints, ligaments and intervertebral discs.

How many sections are there in the human spine, and which organs depend on their condition? In total, five departments are distinguished, each of which, except for the coccygeal, has peculiar bends, and is responsible for the work of certain organs and parts of the human body.

Cervical (7 vertebrae) – cerebral circulation, pituitary gland, sinuses, tongue, vocal cords, lips, eyes, skin, thyroid gland, ears, muscles, shoulders, elbows.
Thoracic (12 vertebrae)- lungs, heart, bronchi, skin, kidneys, chest, stomach, hands, liver, lymph, adrenal glands.
Lumbar (5 vertebrae)- intestines, appendix, bladder, male genital organs, hip and other joints.
Sacral (3-5 vertebrae)- violations in this section lead to hemorrhoids, back pain when sitting, and fecal incontinence.
Coccygeal (3-4 vertebrae) the lower part of the human spine.

Cervical and thoracic curvature, facing forward, is called lordosis, and sacral and lumbar, facing backwards - kyphosis. It is thanks to the bends that the spinal column has flexibility. The frontal plane also has slight physiological curves (scoliosis) - right lumbar and cervical, left chest.

All parts of the human spine are designed to protect the spinal cord, through which the brain transmits impulses to all other parts of the body.

Cervical - the anatomy of the cervical spine is so peculiar that it is this part of the entire column that is the most mobile. The structure of the cervical spine contributes to tilting and turning the head, namely the first two vertebrae. The first of them is not connected with the body of the spine, having the form of two arches, which are interconnected by bony lateral thickenings. The condyles attach this part of the spine to the occipital region. The second vertebra is an odontoid process - a bone outgrowth in the anterior region.
The thoracic region has the shape of the letter "C", curved backwards, representing a physiological kyphosis. Takes part in the formation of the chest wall, and in particular its posterior wall. Ribs are attached to the processes and bodies of the thoracic vertebrae with the help of joints, forming the chest. This section of the spine is inactive, due to the small distance between the intervertebral discs in this area, the presence of spinous processes of the vertebrae and the chest consisting of strong ribs. Often, with a disease of this department, pain occurs between the shoulder blades.
Lumbar- the greatest load that falls on the human spine: the lumbar spine takes over. That is why nature created it more fortified, with large vertebrae, which are much larger in diameter than the elements of other departments. The structure of the lumbar spine has a smooth slight anterior bend, which can only be compared with the cervical region of the column.
sacrum (sacrum)- located at the base of the spine and represents the vertebrae, fused together into a homogeneous bone, which has a wedge-shaped shape. This part of the spinal column is a continuation of the lumbar and ends with the coccyx.
coccygeal department- has little mobility and is the final, lowest part of the spinal column. It has a close relationship with the sacrum and is considered as a vestige of the tail, unnecessary for a person.

Expert opinion

Pain and crunching in the back and joints over time can lead to dire consequences - local or complete restriction of movement in the joint and spine, up to disability. People, taught by bitter experience, use to cure joints natural remedy recommended by orthopedist Bubnovsky ... Read more»

The mobility of the spine is provided with the help of numerous joints that are located between the vertebrae. Knowing the structure of the spine, a person can get an idea about the occurrence of various diseases, since each of its departments is “responsible” for the condition and functioning of the internal organs and parts of the human body.

Each vertebra of the spinal column consists of porous bone tissue, which is covered on the outside with thickened bone matter, consisting of calcium, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium. It is thanks to these elements that the spine is given strength and the necessary shape.

A little about secrets

Have you ever experienced constant back and joint pain? Judging by the fact that you are reading this article, you are already personally familiar with osteochondrosis, arthrosis and arthritis. Surely you have tried a bunch of medicines, creams, ointments, injections, doctors, and, apparently, none of the above has helped you ... And there is an explanation for this: it is simply not profitable for pharmacists to sell a working remedy, as they will lose customers! Nevertheless, Chinese medicine has known the recipe for getting rid of these diseases for thousands of years, and it is simple and understandable. Read more»

In the inner part of the spinal column is the bone marrow, which is a yellowish fat-like substance. It is in it that erythrocytes and lymphocytes are produced, which are responsible for the main processes of the human body.

The relationship between the spine and internal organs

No wonder Hippocrates said that if a person is diagnosed with many diseases at the same time, then the problem should be sought in the spine. This statement is confirmed today, since it is from the spinal cord that the nerve fibers that are responsible for the normal operation and functioning of the whole organism come. Diseases of the spine are the cause of problems with the brain, digestive system and heart.

Treatment of concomitant diseases does not give the desired effect, since they are only consequences, and the cause itself is “skillfully” hidden from specialists examining a sick person. But diseases of the spine should be treated as early as possible, if you do not give due attention to this in the early stages of the disease, then you can wait for serious consequences.

How to forget about pain in the back and joints?

We all know what pain and discomfort are. Arthrosis, arthritis, osteochondrosis and back pain seriously spoil life, limiting normal activities- it is impossible to raise a hand, step on a leg, get out of bed.