10 Back Anatomy Facts

10 Back Anatomy Facts

Here are 10 essential facts about back anatomy.

1. Spinal Column Structure

• The human spine consists of 33 vertebrae, divided into five regions: cervical (7), thoracic (12), lumbar (5), sacral (5 fused), and coccygeal (4 fused).

2. Intervertebral Discs

• These discs are located between the vertebrae and serve as shock absorbers. Each disc has an outer annulus fibrosus and a gel-like nucleus pulposus.

3. Curvatures of the Spine

• The spine has natural curves: cervical and lumbar lordosis (curving inward) and thoracic and sacral kyphosis (curving outward) which help with weight distribution and balance.

4. Spinal Cord and Nerves

• The spinal cord runs through the vertebral foramen and is protected by the vertebrae. It gives rise to 31 pairs of spinal nerves that innervate various body parts.

5. Muscles of the Back

• Major muscle groups include the erector spinae (responsible for extension and lateral flexion), the trapezius (neck and shoulder movement), and the latissimus dorsi (arm movement).

6. Ligaments Supporting the Spine

• Important ligaments include the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, which run along the front and back of the spine, respectively, and the ligamenta flava that connect adjacent vertebrae.

7. Facet Joints

• These are synovial joints between the articular processes of adjacent vertebrae, allowing for flexibility and movement while providing stability to the spine.

8. Blood Supply

• The spinal cord receives blood from the anterior spinal artery and paired posterior spinal arteries, branching from the vertebral arteries and segmental arteries.

9. Innervation of the Back

• The back is mainly innervated by the dorsal rami of the spinal nerves, which supply the muscles, skin, and joints of the back.

10. Common Conditions

• Understanding back anatomy is crucial for diagnosing common conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and low back pain, which can significantly impact patient quality of life.