Anatomy of a Normal Spine
The spinal column is a stack of bones (vertebrae) that are separated by soft pads of tissue (disks). Each of these bones has a canal that runs top to bottom. Together these canals form a tunnel called the spinal canal. Running through this canal are nerves. These nerves carry signals between the brain and body.
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The spine has three natural curves: the cervical, the thoracic, and the lumbar. |
The Parts of the Spine
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The vertebrae are the 24 bones that connect like puzzle pieces to make up the spine.
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The lamina of each vertebra forms the back of the spinal canal.
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A foramen is a small opening. This is where a nerve leaves the spinal canal.
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The transverse process is the wing of bone on either side of each vertebra.
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The spinous process is the part of each vertebra you can feel through your skin.
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A disk lies between each of the vertebrae.
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Two vertebrae with a disk between them |
Author: StayWell Custom Communications
Last Annual Review Date:
1/15/2007