This blog post has some technical terms in it but bear with us. After reading through this article you should be better equipped to discuss and understand back pain with your doctor!

Overview

The complete human spine contains 33 vertebrae total, with 7 in the cervical region, 12 in the thoracic region, 5 in the lumbar region, 5 in the sacral region, and 4 in the coccygeal region. Each of these regions references their location in the body.

Cervical Region

The uppermost portion of the spine is referred to as the “Cervical Region.” This section of the spine runs up through the neck and connects to the base of the skull. The two uppermost vertebrae, the Atlas and the Axis, allow the head to move.

Thoracic Region

Moving down from the Cervical region, we’ll find the Thoracic region. The 12 vertebrae accounted for in this section grow in size as you descend the spine, with T1 (the uppermost vertebrae) being the smallest and T12 (the lowermost vertebrae) being the largest. This section comprises the upper back and is given added stability by the ribs, which connect to the spine along this section.

Lumbar Region

We’ve all received the instructions, lift with your legs, at some point in our lives. The Lumbar Region of the spine is the section which thanks to you for following this advice. This section constitutes the typical “lower back.” It is easily strained when lifting heavy objects, so be careful during your next move.

Sacral and Coccygeal Regions

The Sacral and Coccygeal regions are comprised of small vertebrae, 5 and 4 respectively, which are naturally fused together into solid bone. They constitute the lowest regions of the spine, and, the “Coccygeal Region” is just another name for your tailbone.

This is a very basic breakdown of the spinal regions, but, it should be helpful for starting a conversation with your doctor about the back pain and treatment options, such as Artificial Disc Replacement, Spinal Fusion, or Stem Cell injections.

Remember, back pain is not a condition, but rather a symptom of a greater problem. If you or someone you know is living with chronic lower back pain, know that there is a solution. Contact us at 243-841-8939 in order to schedule a consultation and find out how the Microsurgical Spine Center can help lead you towards a future of relief and restoring you to a higher quality of life. We believe in a future without pain – and we are here to help you take back your life.

Sources:
http://www.mayfieldclinic.com/PE-AnatSpine.htm
https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spine-anatomy/normal-spinal-anatomy

Photos:
http://www.teachpe.com/anatomy-physiology/the-skeleton-bones/anatomy-of-the-spine