A spinal column is the flexible column of bones also known as vertebrae which extends from the base of your skull to your pelvis.
Your spinal column provides the central support for your body and allows for movement and balance and also protects your spinal cord which is a bundle of nerves.
The structure of the spinal column is the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal canal, spinal cord and ligaments and muscles.
The spinal column is made up of 33 individual vertebrae that are stacked on top of each other.
The intervertebral discs act as cushions between your vertebrae, absorbing shock and allowing for flexibility.
The spinal canal is a tunnel that is formed within your vertebrae which houses your spinal cord.
And the spinal cord is a long and delicate structure which carries nerve signals between your brain and the rest of your body.
The ligaments and muscles are tissues which provide support and stability to your spinal column.
The functions of the spinal column are support, movement, protection, shock absorption and nerve conduction.
Your spinal column supports your head, torso and your limbs and allows you to stand upright.
Your spinal column also allows for a wide range of movements which include twisting, bending and flexing as well as protects your spinal cord from injury.
The intervertebral discs help to absorb the impact of movement and the spinal cord transmits signals between your brain and the rest of your body.
Your spinal column is also divided into 5 groups which include the cervical region, thoracic region, lumbar region, sacral region and the coccygeal region.
7 vertebrae are location in the neck region, 12 vertebrae are located in your upper back and connected to your ribs, 5 vertebrae are located in your lower back, 5 fused vertebrae are located in your pelvis and 4 fused vertebrae and sometimes 3 or 5 forms in your tailbone.