Get to know the structure of the spine and its function

The spine has an important role in supporting the human body. By recognizing the structure of the spine, you can understand its function more closely and anticipate any disruptions that may occur.

The spine functions as a support for the human head, shoulders and body in order to be able to stand upright, sit, walk and move flexibly. Not only that, the spinal structure plays a big role in protecting the spinal cord from injury.

Spinal Structure and Functions

The spinal structure consists of three natural curves that are shaped like the letter S, when viewed from the side. These three curves include the cervical spine (cervical), middle spine (thoracic), and lower backbone (lumbar).

The curvature of the spine is important for providing balance to the body and helping us to stand tall. Combined, the three arches have 33 vertebrae that overlap. These bones are then divided into several parts with the following explanation:

1. Cervical spine
The first seven vertebrae from above are called the cervix. These bones are at the back of the neck, just below the brain. Not only for supporting the head and neck, the top of the spine which is C-shaped also supports your ability to turn, tilt, and nod your head.

2. Middle backbone
Below the cervix are 12 thoracic bones that run from the upper chest to the middle back. Your ribs stick to these bones. The mid-spinal structure normally bends slightly to form an inverted C-like.

3. Lower backbone
Furthermore, below the middle (thoracic) spine, there are 5 bones that make up the structure of the lower spine. These bones bend inward so that they look like they are forming the letter C.

The lower (lumbar) spine supports the top of the spine and is connected to the pelvis. These bones carry most of the weight and pressure when you lift or carry objects. Hence, many spinal problems occur in the lower spine.

4. The sacrum
The sacrum consists of 5 vertebrae that are joined together to resemble a triangle. This bone is connected to the hip and forms a ring called the pelvis.

5. Tailbone
Below the sacrum, there is the coccyx, which is the base of the spine. The coccyx consists of 4 vertebrae which are joined to form 1 small bone. This bone plays a role in bearing weight and is a good center of gravity.

So when you pick up a heavy backpack, the lumbar spine, sacrum and coccyx help give you the strength to lift them. When you dance, jump, and walk, these bone areas also help you to stay balanced.

Between the vertebrae, there are several networks that are connected to each other, namely:

• Facet joints, to connect each part of the spine and provide flexibility and stability to the body
• Intervertebral discs, which are small discs made of cartilage to prevent the spinal structures from rubbing against each other and provide a cushion for the spine
• The opening through which the nerve tissue branches out, to convey messages between the brain and muscles
• Soft tissue consisting of ligaments (to hold each part of the spine), muscles (to support the back and help the body move), and tendons (to connect muscles to bone movement)

Disorders of the Spinal Structure to Watch Out for

Some of the conditions that can affect the health of the spinal structures are as follows:

• Rheumatism
• Back pain and sprains
• Curvature of the spine, such as scoliosis and kyphosis
• Neuromuscular diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Nerve injury
• Osteoporosis
• Spinal cord injuries, including spinal fractures
• Spinal tumors and cancer
• Spinal infections, such as meningitis
• Birth defects, such as spina bifida

To prevent back problems and protect the structure of the spine to keep it normal and healthy, one of the most important ways is to strengthen the back muscles. You can do specific back muscle strengthening exercises regularly or at least 2 times a week.

If you experience back pain accompanied by fever, pain from the back moving to the legs, and pain that gets worse until it causes nausea and interferes with daily activities, don't hesitate to consult a doctor for proper treatment.