Spine Anatomy

The spine is divided into four regions. The top seven vertebrae make up the cervical (or neck) region. The middle twelve make up the thoracic region (or chest). The lower five vertebrae make up the lumbar region (or lower back), the most common location of back pain. Finally, the base of your spine is made up of the sacrum and coccyx, often referred to as the “tail bone.” Separating the vertebral bones are compressible, cushion-like substances called  “discs.” The discs prevent the bones from hitting each other and assist the spine in moving (flexing) through various ranges of motion. In healthy spines, the discs that separate each vertebra provide adequate cushioning for movement and mobility.