The spine, also known as the vertebral column, is a complex skeletal structure that serves multiple functions in the male body.
Structure
The spine is composed of 33 vertebrae stacked one on top of the other, separated by intervertebral discs. The vertebrae are classified into five different regions; cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum, and coccyx.
Each vertebra consists of a body, a vertebral arch, and various processes (spinous, transverse, and articular).
The vertebral arch surrounds and protects the spinal cord, which runs through the vertebral canal. The processes serve as attachment points for muscles and ligaments.
Functions
The primary function of the human spine is to provide support and stability for the upper body, while also allowing for movement and flexibility.
The spine also serves as a conduit for the spinal cord, which is a crucial component of the central nervous system.
The spinal cord contains nerve fibres that transmit signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord is protected by the vertebral column, which acts as a bony shield.
Sections of the spine
The different regions are specialised to perform different functions.
Cervical
Seven vertebrae form the cervical spine (Cx), located at the top of the spine.
These robust bones support the weight of the head and provide a tunnel for nerves to the brain.
The cervical spine also provides numerous origin and insertions points for muscles involved in the movement and support of the the head and neck.
Thoracic
Twelve vertebrae form the thoracic spine (Tx), located in the middle of the spine.
Along with the rib cage and sternum, the thoracic spine forms a protective structure for the organs of the thorax, such as the heart and lungs.
The thoracic cage also provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments of the chest, abdomen, neck, and upper limbs.
Lumbar
Five vertebrae form the lumbar spine (Lx), located in the lower spine.
The lumbar region, as an integral part of the body's core, bears the weight of the upper body and is responsible for movements such as bending and lifting.
The most load-bearing and mobile section of the spine, the lumbar is also most prone to injury from accidents or bad lifting practices.
Sacrum & Coccyx
At the base of the spine, five vertebrae form the sacrum, and four form the coccyx. During adolescence, these individual vertebrae begin to fuse from nine bones, to two.
The joint between the sacrum and coccyx is called a symphysis, a cartilaginous joint which is tight but still allows limited flexion and extension.
In some adults, the sacrum and coccyx will fuse together to form a single bone.
This formation of the sacrococcygeal region, or tailbone, is a growth process necessary to support the weight of a more robust adult body.
Structurally, the sacrococcygeal region, provides a solid anchor for major muscles including the piriformis, iliacus, and those of the pelvic floor.
Crucially, the sacrum connects to the ilium, or hip bones, via ligaments to form a strong protective cradle around the fragile organs and glands of the reproductive and lower digestive systems.
Spinal injuries
While the spine does move, movement is not one of its functions. Movement of the various vertebrae are controlled by muscles and nerves.
In turn, intervertebral discs between each vertebrae act as shock absorbers, helping to cushion the spine during movement.
For these reasons, a Remedial Masseur or Physiotherapist are usually the first port of call when the spine's range of movement needs correcting.
More serious spinal injuries such as bone spurs or ruptured discs, require further investigation by a physician, usually via x-rays and MRI.
Surgical advances and new alternatives are rapidly developing in the field of spinal injuries.
It's important to always consult a trained specialist when dealing with back pain, in order to maintain physical fitness and assist with injury prevention.