How can you physically stand
behind your father
while he is standing behind you?
And while you’re here, check out these 10 facts about Backs…
Vertebral Column: The backbone, or vertebral column, consists of 33 vertebrae: 7 cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (mid-back), 5 lumbar (lower back), 5 sacral (fused to form the sacrum), and 4 coccygeal (often fused to form the coccyx or tailbone).
Function of Spine: The spine provides structural support to the body, enables flexible movement, and protects the spinal cord, which is a major nerve pathway.
Largest Bone: The largest bone in the back is the sacrum, which forms the back part of the pelvis.
Muscles: There are numerous muscles in the back, and they are typically categorized into two main groups: extrinsic (surface) muscles and intrinsic (deep) muscles. Some major muscles include the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and erector spinae.
Most Common Pain: Lower back pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide. It can arise from various causes such as muscle strain, herniated discs, or spinal conditions like stenosis.
Spinal Curvatures: A healthy spine, when viewed from the side, has a natural S-shape with cervical and lumbar regions curving slightly inward (lordosis) and the thoracic and sacral regions curving outward (kyphosis).
Intervertebral Discs: Between each of the 24 moveable vertebrae, there is an intervertebral disc. These discs act as shock absorbers, allow for mobility, and maintain the space and nerve pathways between vertebrae.
Age and Height: As people age, they might notice a decrease in height. One reason for this is the dehydration and gradual thinning of the intervertebral discs over time.
Spinal Cord: The spinal cord, which runs through the vertebral column, is a crucial part of the central nervous system. It connects the brain to the rest of the body and is responsible for transmitting nerve signals.
Protection: Due to its importance and vulnerability, the spine is protected by several structures: vertebrae (bones), discs (cushioning), ligaments (binding), and muscles (support and movement). Any damage or issue with these protective elements can lead to back pain or other complications.
Understanding the back’s complexity and intricacies can lead to better self-care, posture habits, and overall health.
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