Anatomy and Functions of the Human Spine

Study Notes

Anatomy

The columna vertebral, or spine, is a complex system of bones, discs, and ligaments that extend from the base of the skull to the coccyx.
It consists of 33 vertebrae: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 4 coccygeal.
The vertebrae are separated by intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers and allow for flexibility.
The spine is divided into four regions:
- Cervical spine (C1-C7): flexible and supports the head.
- Thoracic spine (T1-T12): relatively rigid and provides support for the thoracic cavity.
- Lumbar spine (L1-L5): strong and flexible, supporting the upper body.
- Sacrum and coccyx: fused vertebrae at the base of the spine.

Functions

Supports the body's weight and maintains posture.
Provides flexibility and movement, allowing for bending, twisting, and stretching.
Protects the spinal cord and nerves.
Facilitates movement and balance by acting as a pivot point.

Injuries

Common injuries:
- Herniated discs: when the intervertebral disc ruptures, putting pressure on surrounding nerves.
- Fractures: breaks in the vertebrae, often due to trauma or osteoporosis.
- Spondylolisthesis: when a vertebra slips out of place, putting pressure on surrounding nerves.
Causes of injuries:
- Trauma (e.g., falls, car accidents)
- Repetitive strain (e.g., heavy lifting, bending)
- Degenerative conditions (e.g., osteoporosis, spondylosis)

Diseases

Common diseases:
- Spondylosis: degenerative changes in the spine, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Scoliosis: abnormal curvature of the spine.
- Spinal stenosis: narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord.
- Osteoporosis: bone loss and fragility, leading to vertebral fractures.
Causes of diseases:
- Genetic factors
- Aging
- Infection (e.g., osteomyelitis)
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

Surgery

Types of surgery:
- Spinal fusion: joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine.
- Discectomy: removal of a herniated disc.
- Laminectomy: removal of a portion of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
- Osteotomy: correction of spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis).
Indications for surgery:
- Severe pain or disability
- Nerve compression or damage
- Spinal instability or deformity
- Failure of conservative treatments

Description

Learn about the structure and functions of the human spine, including its regions, injuries, diseases, and surgical interventions. Test your knowledge of this complex system and its importance in maintaining posture and facilitating movement.