Spinal Anatomy

The Regions of the Spine

Your spine consists of five distinct regions, each contributing to movement, flexibility, and stability while protecting vital components of your nervous system.

Cervical Spine (C1–C7)

Located in the neck, the cervical spine has seven vertebrae. This region supports the weight of your head and provides a wide range of motion, including rotation, bending, flexion, and extension.

Key Features:
- C1 (Atlas): Allows the head to nod.
- C2 (Axis): Enables head rotation.

Thoracic Spine (T1–T12)

The thoracic spine, located in the upper and mid-back, consists of 12 vertebrae connected to your ribs. While its range of motion is limited, this region provides critical stability and protects the heart, lungs, and other vital organs.

Key Function: Supports posture and the ribcage for torso stability.

Lumbar Spine (L1–L5)

The lumbar spine is found in the lower back and is made up of five large vertebrae. This region bears most of your body’s weight and handles the stress of bending, twisting, and lifting.

Key Features:
- Provides flexibility for daily activities.
- Common site for back pain due to its weight-bearing role.

Sacral Spine (S1–S5)

The sacral spine is a fusion of five vertebrae forming the sacrum, a triangular bone that connects your spine to your pelvis.

Key Function: Stabilises and supports the lower body.

Coccygeal Spine

The coccyx, or tailbone, is made up of three to five fused vertebrae. It provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments and supports balance when sitting.

Intervertebral Discs: Your Spine’s Shock Absorbers

Between each vertebra lie intervertebral discs, which act as cushions to absorb shock and facilitate movement.

Nucleus Pulposus: The soft, gel-like core of the disc that redistributes pressure during movement.
Annulus Fibrosus: A durable, outer ring that protects the nucleus and maintains disc stability.

These discs ensure flexibility while reducing the impact on your vertebrae. Over time, injuries or degeneration can compromise disc health, leading to pain and restricted movement.