Anatomy of the Spine

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The purpose of this section is to help you understand basic spinal anatomy and how the different parts of your spine work together.  Learning about the structures in you spine can help you have a more meaningful conversations with your doctor too. 
 

• Normal Spinal Curves
• Spinal Cord and Nerves
• Regions of the Spine
• Ligaments, Tendons and Muscles
• Intervertebral Discs
• Facet Joints
• Anatomical Planes
• Vertebral Structures

Video: Anatomy of the Spine
Click below to view a video from our library about this condition.

The human spine is an engineering miracle. Designed to support the weight of the body, a healthy spine allows for a wide range of movement, lifting, twisting, and bending. The vertebrae stack, enclose the spinal column, and protect the spinal cord -- the body’s “information highway” made up of a complex network of nerves that deliver messages to and from the brain.