Back Pain Relief Starts With Knowing About Your Spine First

Several factors can be in play with something like back pain, but the spine is the most crucial element to examine when investigating possible causes.  Most people are unfamiliar with the anatomical breakdown of the spine.  It seems to be only one element of the body, but the fact is that the spine is actually comprised of various sections that serve multiple purposes.

Cervical Spine

The cervical spine is located between the shoulders and the base of the skull. It is comprised of seven bones, and its structure allows for fluid movement of the head and neck. Damage to the cervical spine can lead to severe consequences, including paralysis and death. As a result, people who have suffered physical trauma to the cervical spine will often have the area immobilized and require minimally invasive spine surgery.

Thoracic Spine

The thoracic spine extends from the shoulders to the bottom of the rib cage. It consists of 12 bones and provides strength and support for the body’s core. Each of these 12 bones, or vertebrae, allow for the spinal cord to pass through, serving as a protective barrier for the central nervous system. Damage to the thoracic spine can lead to paralysis and other mobility problems.

Lumbar Spine

The lumbar spine is made up of five bones and is located between the bottom of the rib cage and the top of the pelvis. Being that these bones are the largest found in the spine, they are perfect for supporting the body’s weight and acting as shock absorbers. Damage to the lumbar spine can lead to severe lower back pain and the inability to bend or shift.

Sacrum

The sacrum is a single bone that is connected to the pelvic bone at the bottom of the spine. It acts as a support mechanism and is often shaped differently in men and women. For men, the sacrum will generally appear larger and more uniform throughout, while in women, the sacrum will generally be shorter and wider. Additionally, the sacrum is often found to be made up of five unfused parts in babies, but these parts fuse together in time, forming a complete bone by the time a person reaches their thirties.

Coccyx

The coccyx is made up of three to five vertebrae and is found at the base of the sacrum. It serves as a connecting point for muscles and nerves, and it offers support when standing or sitting.

Contact the Neuro & Spine Wellness Center for Expert Spine Care

To learn more about the anatomy of the spine and how to take care of it, or to speak with a spine surgeonor neurosurgeon, contact the Neuro & Spine Wellness Center in Frisco, TX. The Neuro & Spine Wellness Center also offers a variety of treatment options for people suffering from neurological and spinal conditions, including degenerative disc disease or disc injury, neck pain, spinal stenosis, and brain tumors.

To schedule an appointment with the Neuro & Spine Wellness Center, call 214-494-0455.