MV Spine Medical Skeletal 3D Cross Section
The spine, also known as the vertebral column, is a complex structure composed of 33 individual bones called vertebrae, which are stacked to form the spinal column. It serves several critical functions:
- Support: The spine provides structural support for the body, allowing us to stand upright and maintain posture.
- Protection: It encases and protects the spinal cord, a vital part of the central nervous system, which transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
- Flexibility and Movement: The spine allows for a range of movements, including bending and twisting, due to its flexible nature and the intervertebral discs that act as cushions between the vertebrae.
- Attachment: It serves as an attachment point for muscles and ligaments, facilitating movement and stability.
The spine is divided into several regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvic), and coccygeal (tailbone). Each region has specific characteristics and functions.