The spine, also known as the backbone, is a marvel of human anatomy, crucial for maintaining our mobility and supporting a wide range of activities. Comprised of a series of vertebral bones separated by cushioning intervertebral discs, the spine not only provides stability and smooth motion but also serves as a protective passageway for the delicate spinal cord. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together to support this structure, while nerves branching out from the spinal cord ensure communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This spinal anatomy guide for patients will help you to understand more about your spine.
A healthy spine is essential for overall well-being, enabling us to move freely and comfortably.
The Spinal Column: Segments of the Spine
Let’s start with the big picture.
Your spine isn’t just one long, solid piece—it’s more like a chain of different sections, each designed for a specific job. There are five distinct regions, and while they all look like they belong to the same “family,” each one has its own shape, movement style, and purpose.
1) Cervical (Neck - yellow in pic)
2) Thoracic (Back of chest/ribs - blue in pic)
3) Lumbar (Low back - green in the pic)
4) Sacrum (Central Pelvis)
5) Coccyx (Very bottom of the pelvis - literally)
Together, these regions give your spine an incredible mix of strength, flexibility, and protection. Think of it as an engineering masterpiece—strong enough to hold you upright, flexible enough to let you bend and twist, and carefully built to shield the delicate spinal cord that runs through the middle.
By understanding these sections, it’s easier to see how your spine supports your body every day—and why different problems show up in different areas. So lets explore each area a bit more.......
Cervical Spine: The Neck’s Mobility and Support
Your cervical spine is the neck portion of your backbone. It’s made up of seven small but mighty vertebrae, numbered C1 to C7—starting just under your skull and running down toward your shoulders.
This part of your spine has two big jobs. First, it has to hold up your head, which is surprisingly heavy (roughly the weight of a bowling ball!). Second, it needs to be incredibly flexible, letting you nod, tilt, and turn your head smoothly without straining the rest of your body. The flexibility of the cervical spine is what allows you to move your head so freely—but it also makes this area more prone to injury. A common example is whiplash, which often happens in car accidents when the head is suddenly thrown back and forth.
The first two vertebrae are uniquely designed to allow controlled movement at the top of the spine.
C1, known as the atlas, forms a ring that supports the skull—acting like the top of a pedestal.
C2, known as the axis, has a small peg-shaped projection (the odontoid process) that acts as a pivot, allowing the head to rotate from side to side.
Together, these vertebrae create the fine balance between movement and stability at the junction between your head and neck.
Below this, C3 to C7 make up the rest of the cervical spine. These vertebrae are smaller and more mobile than those lower down the back, allowing the neck to flex, extend, and tilt in multiple directions. Their interlocking joints (facet joints) guide motion, while the spinal canal and openings between each vertebra protect the spinal cord and nerves that supply the shoulders, arms, and hands.
This structure allows for precision and range of movement while maintaining strength and protection for the delicate neural tissues passing through.
The Thoracic Spine: Your Body’s Protective Cage
The thoracic spine makes up the middle part of your back (blue in the pic below). It has twelve vertebrae, numbered T1 to T12, running from the base of your neck down to just above your lower back.
What makes this section special is its connection to your rib cage (Purple in the pic below). Each thoracic vertebra links to a pair of ribs, creating a strong protective cage around your vital organs like the heart and lungs.
Because it’s attached to the ribs, the thoracic spine is less flexible than your neck or lower back. This limited movement is actually a good thing—it gives your chest the stability it needs to protect your organs and support breathing.
The thoracic spine’s main job is to support the upper body and act as a strong anchor for the ribs. It’s generally less prone to injury than other areas of the spine, but it can still develop problems. Conditions like kyphosis (an excessive outward curve, sometimes seen as a hunched back) or scoliosis (a sideways curve of the spine) can affect this region and change the way it moves.
Lumbar Spine: The Powerhouse of the Lower Back
The lumbar spine sits in your lower back and is made up of five big, sturdy vertebrae, numbered L1 to L5 (green in the pic below). Unlike the smaller vertebrae in your neck, these ones are built for strength and support.
This part of your spine does the heavy lifting—literally. It bears most of your body’s weight and helps you with everyday movements like bending, twisting, and lifting. Because it takes on so much load, the lumbar vertebrae are the largest and strongest in your entire spine, designed to handle stress and strain.
But with great responsibility comes vulnerability. The lumbar spine is the area most likely to develop problems such as:
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Herniated discs – when the soft cushion between vertebrae bulges or slips
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Lumbar strain – overstretched muscles and ligaments in the lower back
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Sciatica – pain that travels down the leg when a nerve gets irritated or compressed
The Pelvis
Sacrum: The Spine’s Connection to the Pelvis
The sacrum is a triangular-shaped bone located at the base of the spine, formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae (S1 to S5) during adolescence and early adulthood. The sacrum is wedged between the two hip bones (Ilium) and forms the back part of the pelvis. This bony structure is vital for transferring the weight of the upper body to the lower limbs and provides stability when standing, walking, or sitting.
The sacrum also has an important role in the body’s structural integrity, as it connects the spine to the pelvis via the sacroiliac joints. Dysfunction in these joints can lead to lower back pain or leg pain, which may be treated effectively through physiotherapy in Northampton.
Coccyx: The Tailbone
The coccyx, commonly referred to as the tailbone, is the small, bony structure at the very base of the spinal column. It is formed by the fusion of four small vertebrae and serves as an attachment point for various muscles, ligaments, and tendons, particularly those associated with the pelvic floor. Although it may seem like a vestigial structure, the coccyx plays a significant role in supporting and stabilising a seated posture.
Injuries to the coccyx, often caused by falls or prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, can lead to coccydynia, a condition characterised by tailbone pain. .
The Vertebrae: Building Blocks of Your Spine
Now that we’ve looked at the different regions of the spine—cervical, thoracic, and lumbar—it’s time to zoom in on the individual pieces that make it all possible.
As we mentioned at the start, your spine isn’t one solid structure. It’s made up of small bony segments called vertebrae, stacked neatly on top of each other from the base of your skull all the way down to your pelvis. Think of them like the building blocks of a tower—each one shaped slightly differently depending on its job in the spine.
These vertebrae are what give your back its unique combination of strength and flexibility. Working together with the intervertebral discs (the soft, cushion-like pads between each bone), they let you bend, twist, and move freely while still protecting the delicate spinal cord that runs through the centre.
Understanding the anatomy of a single vertebra will help make sense of how the entire spine functions—and why certain injuries or conditions affect some areas more than others.
I’ve included quite a bit of information here, so feel free to take from it what you find useful. My goal isn’t to overwhelm you but to give you a clear picture of how these structures work, so you can understand your spine better. Take in as much or as little as you desire. The vertebra in the diagrams below are taken from the lumbar spine so are big and robust.
Breaking Down a Vertebra: The Spine’s Building Blocks
As intonated above, the vertebra might look similar at first glance, but each part has its own job to do. Together, these structures give the spine its unique mix of strength, flexibility, and protection.
Let’s go step by step.
Vertebral Body: The Core Structure
At the heart of each vertebra is the vertebral body, a cylindrical, thick, and sturdy segment of bone that bears the majority of the body’s weight. When you stand, walk, or engage in any upright activities, it’s the vertebral bodies that carry this load. Each vertebral body also provides a stable platform for the attachment of intervertebral discs, which are positioned between each vertebra to cushion and protect the bones from rubbing against each other. The vertebral body’s large surface area helps distribute pressure evenly across the spine, reducing the risk of injury and degeneration.
Pedicles: The Connecting Bridges
Pedicles are two short, thick, cylindrical projections that extend from the back of the vertebral body. These structures act like bridges, connecting the vertebral body to the rest of the vertebra, specifically the lamina and other posterior elements. The pedicles play a crucial role in the overall strength of the vertebra, forming the sides of the spinal canal and serving as conduits for nerves and blood vessels that supply the spinal structures. By linking the front and back portions of the vertebra, pedicles contribute to the stability and rigidity of the spinal column.
Lamina: The Protective Roof
The laminae are flat, arched sections of bone that complete the posterior portion of each vertebra, forming the roof of the spinal canal. This canal is the central passageway through which the spinal cord and its associated nerves travel, making it one of the most critical components of the spine. The laminae provide essential protection for the spinal cord from external forces, shielding it from injury. Additionally, the laminae serve as attachment points for muscles and ligaments that support and move the spine, further enhancing spinal stability and function.
Spinous Processes: The Visible Landmarks
The laminae are flat, arched sections of bone that complete the posterior portion of each vertebra, forming the roof of the spinal canal. This canal is the central passageway through which the spinal cord and its associated nerves travel, making it one of the most critical components of the spine. The laminae provide essential protection for the spinal cord from external forces, shielding it from injury. Additionally, the laminae serve as attachment points for muscles and ligaments that support and move the spine, further enhancing spinal stability and function.
Transverse Processes: Anchors for Muscles and Ligaments
Located at the junction where the pedicles meet the laminae, transverse processes are bony protrusions that extend outward from each side of the vertebra. These processes are critical for the attachment of muscles and ligaments that support the spine and control its movement. Specifically, muscles that control the bending and rotation of the spine attach to the transverse processes, allowing for lateral (side-to-side) movement. The transverse processes also serve as leverage points for these muscles, enabling efficient movement with minimal energy expenditure. Additionally, the transverse processes provide attachment points for ligaments that stabilise the spine, particularly in the thoracic region where they connect to the ribs.
Spinal Canal: The Central Pathway
The spinal canal is the hollow tunnel formed by the stacked vertebrae, running through the centre of each vertebra from the base of the skull to the lower back. This canal houses and protects the spinal cord, a vital component of the central nervous system that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The design of the spinal canal ensures that the spinal cord is safeguarded against external pressures and injuries while still allowing for the necessary flexibility of the spine. The canal’s protective role is crucial because any damage to the spinal cord can lead to significant impairments in sensation, movement, and function.
Facet Joints: The Spine’s Articulating Surfaces
Facet joints are small, paired joints located at the back of each vertebra, where the vertebral arch extends outwards. Each vertebra has two sets of facet joints: the superior facets, which connect to the vertebra above, and the inferior facets, which connect to the vertebra below. These joints are synovial, meaning they are surrounded by a capsule filled with lubricating fluid, allowing for smooth movement. The facet joints function in the spine is to guide and limit the spine’s range of motion, preventing excessive twisting and bending that could damage the spinal cord or surrounding structures. They also play a role in stabilising the spine, ensuring that the vertebrae remain properly aligned during movement.
Facet joints are particularly important in the context of spinal health because they are a common source of pain when they become arthritic or inflamed. Conditions such as facet joint syndrome can cause significant discomfort and restrict movement, underscoring the importance of maintaining healthy facet joints through appropriate physical activity and care.
Intervertebral Discs
Intervertebral discs are the unsung heroes of the spine, playing a crucial role in both movement and stability. Positioned between each vertebral body, these discs are flat, rounded structures that act as shock absorbers for the spine. Their unique composition allows them to cushion the vertebrae, distributing pressure and preventing bone-on-bone contact during daily activities like walking, running, lifting, or even sitting.
Annulus Fibrosus: The Structural Support
The intervertebral disc is encased by the annulus fibrosus, a tough, multi-layered ring of fibrous tissue that provides the disc with its structural integrity. This outer layer is composed of concentric sheets of collagen fibers, arranged in a crisscross pattern. This intricate design enables the annulus fibrosus to withstand significant forces, including compression, tension, and torsion, which are encountered during various movements and activities. The primary role of the annulus fibrosus is to contain and protect the inner core of the disc, while also helping to evenly distribute mechanical loads across the spine.The durability of the annulus fibrosus is critical to spinal health, as any weakening or tearing of these fibers can lead to conditions such as a herniated disc. In such cases, the nucleus pulposus can push through a tear in the annulus fibrosus, potentially compressing nearby spinal nerves and causing pain or neurological symptoms.
Nucleus Pulposus: The Gel-Like Core
At the centre of each intervertebral disc lies the nucleus pulposus, a soft, gel-like core that provides the primary cushioning function of the disc. This inner core is composed of a network of collagen fibers immersed in a semi-fluid matrix, rich in water and proteoglycans. The high water content of the nucleus pulposus allows it to act as a hydraulic cushion, absorbing compressive forces that the spine encounters during activities such as jumping, running, or lifting.As pressure is applied to the spine, the nucleus pulposus distributes this force outward toward the annulus fibrosus, which then resists the deformation and helps maintain the shape of the disc. This mechanism not only protects the vertebrae from excessive stress but also contributes to the overall flexibility of the spine, enabling smooth, pain-free movement.However, the nucleus pulposus is not immune to the effects of aging. Over time, the water content within the nucleus can diminish, leading to a reduction in disc height and elasticity. This process, known as disc degeneration, can result in reduced shock absorption, increased pressure on the vertebrae, and the potential for painful conditions such as osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis.
The Aging Spine and Disc Degeneration
As we age, the intervertebral discs undergo natural wear and tear, which can be accelerated by factors such as repetitive strain, poor posture, or traumatic injury. In the last 15 years we have also become increasing aware of the importance that genetics play in the premature occurrence of this degeneration, with up to 70% actually being accredited to your very own genetics building blocks.
The cumulative effect of these factors can lead to disc degeneration, a condition where the discs lose their ability to cushion the spine effectively. Degenerated discs may become thinner and less flexible, leading to increased friction between vertebrae, which can cause pain and stiffness. In some cases, the breakdown of the annulus fibrosus can lead to disc herniation, where the nucleus pulposus bulges out and presses on nearby nerves. This can result in symptoms ranging from localised back pain to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs, depending on the location of the herniation. The thinning of the discs, along with other factors, can also lead to spinal stenosis, a condition where by the opening through which the nerve root exits from the spinal cord to the body, becomes to small and irritates the nerve.
Understanding the role of intervertebral discs and the impact of aging on spinal health underscores the importance of maintaining a strong, flexible spine through regular exercise, proper ergonomics, and seeking timely physiotherapy in Northampton for any back-related issues.
The Spine's Natural Curves: Maintaining Balance and Strength
The adult spine, when viewed from the side, exhibits a natural S-shaped curve that is crucial for its function. This curvature is not just a random design but a sophisticated adaptation that helps the spine absorb shock, maintain balance, and distribute mechanical stress during movement and rest.
The Three Major Curves of the Spine
The spine’s natural curves are categorised into three major regions:
Cervical Lordosis
Thoracic Kyphosis
Lumbar Lordosis
Cervical Lordosis: The cervical spine, which makes up the neck region, has an inward curve known as the cervical lordosis. This curve is crucial for supporting the weight of the head and allowing for its wide range of motion. It also helps in maintaining the head's center of gravity directly above the spine, which is essential for balance.
Thoracic Kyphosis: Moving down to the thoracic spine, this region has an outward curve known as the thoracic kyphosis. The thoracic curve is more pronounced and serves to accommodate and protect the thoracic organs, such as the heart and lungs. The slight outward bend helps to offset the inward curves of the cervical and lumbar regions, maintaining overall spinal balance.
Lumbar Lordosis: The lower back, or lumbar region, has another inward curve similar to the cervical spine. This lumbar lordosis is particularly important for supporting the body's weight, especially during activities such as lifting, bending, and sitting. The curve helps to distribute mechanical stress across the lower back, preventing overload on individual vertebrae and intervertebral discs.
The Importance of Spinal Curves
These natural curves play several key roles:
Shock Absorption: The curves act as natural shock absorbers, helping to distribute and mitigate the forces that the body experiences during activities like walking, running, and jumping. Without these curves, the spine would be more prone to injury from the repetitive impact and compression forces.
Balance and Posture: The S-shaped curve of the spine helps to maintain the body's centre of gravity, enabling efficient and stable posture whether you're standing, sitting, or moving. This alignment ensures that the body remains balanced over the pelvis, reducing the strain on muscles and ligaments.
Strength and Flexibility: The natural curves allow the spine to be both strong and flexible. This flexibility enables a wide range of motion, from bending and twisting to stretching and reaching, while the inherent strength of the curved structure supports the body's weight and dynamic movements.
Spinal Alignment and Deformities
When the natural curves of the spine are exaggerated or diminished, it can lead to postural problems and spinal deformities:
Hyperlordosis and Hyperkyphosis: Excessive inward or outward curvatures, respectively, can lead to conditions like swayback or hunchback, which may cause pain and impair movement.
Scoliosis: Unlike the natural curves, scoliosis is a lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine. It often presents as an S or C-shaped curve when viewed from the back and can result in uneven shoulders, hips, and chronic pain. Early detection and intervention by a physiotherapist in Northampton can help manage scoliosis and prevent its progression.
Maintaining the integrity of these natural curves through regular exercise, proper posture, and timely intervention for any spinal issues is crucial for long-term spinal health.
Muscles of the Spine: Movement and Stability
The muscles surrounding the spine are vital for maintaining posture, enabling movement, and stabilising the vertebral column. These muscles are divided into different groups, each with specific functions that contribute to the spine's overall health and functionality.
Spinal Extensors: The Backbone of Posture
The extensor muscles are located at the back of the spine. The images below show the main extensor muscles (left with trapezius, right without).They include the erector spinae muscles, which run along the length of the spine from the base of the skull to the pelvis. These muscles play a crucial role in helping you stand upright and are heavily involved in movements that require lifting or extending the spine backward.
Function: Extensor muscles are essential for maintaining an upright posture. They counterbalance the forward pull of gravity on the head and upper body, preventing you from slumping forward. These muscles also engage during activities like lifting objects, extending the back, and maintaining stability when standing or sitting.
Importance: Weakness or fatigue in the extensor muscles can lead to poor posture, lower back pain, and an increased risk of spinal injuries. Strengthening these muscles through targeted exercises can help support the spine and reduce the strain on intervertebral discs and ligaments.
Spinal Flexors
The flexor muscles are found at the front of the spine and include the abdominal muscles. These muscles are key players in movements that involve bending forward, lifting, and stabilising the spine during various activities.
Function: Flexors work to pull the spine forward, assisting in movements like bending at the waist, curling the body forward, and lifting objects from the ground. The abdominal muscles, in particular, provide essential support for the lower back, helping to maintain the natural lumbar curve and prevent hyperextension.
Importance: Strong flexor muscles, particularly the deep core muscles, are vital for spinal stability. They help to evenly distribute forces across the spine, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring that the spine remains properly aligned during movement. Weak or imbalanced flexors can lead to lower back pain, poor posture, and increased susceptibility to injuries.
Spinal Obliques: Twisting and Side Bending
The oblique muscles are located on the sides of the body, running diagonally from the ribs to the pelvis. These muscles are responsible for rotational movements and side bending, contributing to the spine's flexibility and stability. I have not provided a separate image for these as a lot of them will be the same as the prior images, but just used on one side rather toth to give the altered changes in movement.
Function: The obliques engage when you twist your torso or bend sideways. They work in coordination with other muscles to stabilise the spine during dynamic movements, such as reaching across your body or twisting to look behind you.
Importance: Strong oblique muscles enhance the spine's ability to perform complex movements and maintain balance. They also play a role in stabilising the core and preventing excessive rotational forces that could strain the spine. Weak obliques can lead to imbalances in the spine's movement patterns, contributing to pain and dysfunction.
The Consequences of Muscle Weakness or Strain
When the muscles of the spine are weak or strained, the stability of the spine is compromised. This can lead to various issues:
Increased Load on the Spine: Weak muscles fail to support the spine adequately, leading to increased stress on the vertebrae, discs, and ligaments. This can result in conditions such spinal stenosis, facet joint overload and chronic back pain. NOTE- please be aware that the word 'core' has become a very common part of many on line explanations for back pain, and the resultant advice offered can appear confectioning at odds with each other. This is because the definition of 'core' can be very different when discussed by perhap a gym instructor versus a physio. Make sure you are confident with what you are reading and the context around that.
Poor Posture: Muscle imbalances can cause poor posture, such as slouching or excessive arching of the lower back. Poor posture not only affects the spine but can also lead to discomfort in other areas of the body, such as the shoulders and neck.
Increased Risk of Injury: Strained or weak muscles are more prone to injury, which can lead to spasms, tears, or chronic pain conditions. Regular strengthening and stretching exercises can help reduce this risk.
Ligaments: Holding It All Together
Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands of connective tissue that play a crucial role in stabilising the spine by holding the vertebrae in place. These ligaments ensure that the spine maintains its proper alignment and integrity during movement and rest.
Anterior and Posterior Longitudinal Ligaments
The anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments run along the length of the spinal column, closely adhering to the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs.
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Anterior Longitudinal Ligament (ALL): This ligament is located on the front (anterior) side of the vertebral bodies. It extends from the base of the skull down to the sacrum. The ALL is particularly thick and strong, and its primary function is to prevent hyperextension of the spine (bending too far backward). By restricting excessive backward movement, the ALL helps protect the intervertebral discs and spinal cord from injury.
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Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (PLL): This ligament runs along the back (posterior) side of the vertebral bodies, within the spinal canal. The PLL is narrower and weaker than the ALL, which makes it less effective at resisting herniation of the intervertebral discs. However, it plays a key role in preventing hyperflexion (bending too far forward) and helps to stabilize the vertebrae during forward bending and flexion movements.
Ligamentum Flavum: The Elastic Connectors
The ligamentum flavum is a series of short, elastic ligaments that connect the laminae of adjacent vertebrae. These ligaments are unique due to their high elastin content, which gives them the ability to stretch and recoil.
Function: The ligamentum flavum helps to maintain the normal curvature of the spine and provides flexibility while stabilising the spinal column. Its elasticity allows it to stretch during movement and recoil to its original position, helping to preserve the alignment of the vertebrae and protecting the spinal cord from sudden movements.
Importance: The ligamentum flavum’s elasticity is crucial for maintaining smooth, coordinated movements of the spine. However, with age or degenerative changes, these ligaments can thicken and lose elasticity, contributing to conditions such as spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord or nerves.
The Role of Ligaments in Spinal Health
The ligaments of the spine work in concert with muscles and tendons to maintain the spine’s stability and alignment.
They act as passive stabilisers, ensuring that the vertebrae remain properly positioned relative to each other during both static and dynamic activities. Damage to these ligaments, whether through injury, overuse, or degeneration, can lead to instability, pain, and a higher risk of spinal injuries. Treatment and rehabilitation for ligament injuries often involve activity modification and physiotherapy in Northampton to restore strength and stability.
The Spinal Cord
The spinal cord is a vital part of the central nervous system, serving as the primary communication highway between the brain and the rest of the body. If you thought your house electrics were complicated, you haven't seen anything yet!! The Spinal cord is a cylindrical structure that extends from the base of the brain (the brainstem) down through the vertebral canal to the lower back.
Structure and Protection
The spinal cord is surrounded and protected by three layers of membranes called meninges:
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Dura Mater: The outermost layer, which is tough and durable, providing a protective shield against external impacts.
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Arachnoid Mater: The middle layer, which is a web-like structure that helps cushion the spinal cord.
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Pia Mater: The innermost layer, which is delicate and adheres closely to the surface of the spinal cord, containing blood vessels that nourish the cord.
Between these layers, particularly in the space between the arachnoid mater and pia mater, is the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This fluid serves several critical functions:
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Cushioning: CSF acts as a shock absorber, protecting the spinal cord from injury due to sudden movements or impacts.
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Nourishment: CSF provides essential nutrients to the spinal cord and removes waste products.
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Buoyancy: CSF helps to reduce the weight of the spinal cord, allowing it to float within the spinal canal and reducing pressure on its structures.
Spinal Nerves: The Network of Communication
The spinal cord is the source of 31 pairs of spinal nerves, which branch out from the cord and exit the spinal column through openings between the vertebrae. These nerves are organized into segments that correspond to different regions of the body:
Cervical Nerves (C1-C8): These nerves control signals to the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
Thoracic Nerves (T1-T12): These nerves control signals to the chest and upper abdomen.
Lumbar Nerves (L1-L5): These nerves control signals to the lower abdomen, hips, and legs.
Sacral Nerves (S1-S5): These nerves control signals to the pelvis, lower legs, and feet.
Coccygeal Nerve: This single nerve controls a small area around the coccyx (tailbone).
The spinal nerves are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body to the brain and carrying motor commands from the brain to the muscles. This two-way communication allows for the coordination of movement, sensation, and reflexes.
When people suffer from sciatica (nerve related leg pain), a common condition related to certain types of low back pain, it is the nerve roots that go on to feed create the sciatica nerve, that are affected (L4-S3).
Spinal Nerves: The Network of Communication
Damage to the spinal cord can have severe and often irreversible consequences, depending on the level and severity of the injury:
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Paralysis: Injuries to the spinal cord can result in loss of movement and sensation below the level of the injury. High-level injuries, such as those in the cervical spine, can lead to quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), while lower injuries may result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower limbs).
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Loss of Sensation: Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt the transmission of sensory information, leading to numbness, tingling, or complete loss of sensation in affected areas.
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Autonomic Dysfunction: The spinal cord also plays a role in regulating involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, and bladder control. Injuries can disrupt these functions, leading to life-threatening complications.
Early intervention and specialised care, often involving specialist neurological physiotherapists are crucial for maximising recovery and improving the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Summary
Your spine is a strong, flexible column made up of vertebrae and discs that protect your spinal cord while allowing movement. Each region of the spine has its own role: the cervical spine in your neck supports and turns the head, the thoracic spine in your mid-back works with the rib cage to provide stability and posture, and the lumbar spine in your lower back carries most of your body weight and movement demands. Below these, the sacrum links the spine to the pelvis, and the coccyx provides support when sitting.
Each vertebra has a solid body for weight-bearing and several bony arches and processes that provide attachment points for muscles and ligaments. The small facet joints between vertebrae help guide movement and prevent excessive motion. Between each vertebra, the intervertebral disc acts as a shock absorber. The outer annulus surrounds a gel-like nucleus, and small changes here can sometimes irritate nearby nerves — as in sciatica.
Gentle natural curves in the neck, mid-back and low back help absorb shock and keep your posture balanced. Muscles and ligaments work together to stabilise and move the spine. Key ligaments, like the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments and the ligamentum flavum, limit excessive motion and protect the spinal cord.
Thirty-one pairs of spinal nerves branch out through small openings to control movement and sensation in the body. When a disc or joint irritates a nerve, it can cause pain, tingling or weakness along that nerve’s pathway.
When to seek help:
If you notice new or worsening back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or changes in balance, it’s best to get checked. Most people recover well with the right assessment, advice, and targeted treatment.
If you’re based in or around Northampton, you can book a 60-minute assessment with Chris Heywood for a thorough review and clear guidance forward.
A Quick Note From Chris
It won’t surprise many of you to know that I don’t get any financial reward for writing and sharing these pages. I do it because I genuinely want to help people better understand their conditions and feel more in control of their recovery.
All I ask is that you don’t plagiarise or claim this work as your own — and if you’ve found it helpful, please consider sharing it with friends, family, or anyone else who might benefit from it. Follow my blog for regular updates on new topics, pages and future projects.
Thanks for reading — and for taking your health seriously.
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Frequently asked questions
Why You Should Choose Chris Heywood Physio
The most important thing when seeking help is finding a practitioner you trust—someone who is honest, responsible, and clear about your diagnosis, the treatment you really need, and whether any follow-up appointments are necessary.
I’m not here to poach you from another therapist, but if you’re looking for a new physiotherapist in Northamptonshire or simply want a second opinion, here’s why many people choose to work with me (read my reviews):
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With 25+ years of hands-on physiotherapy experience, I’ve built a trusted reputation for clinical excellence and evidence-based care. My approach combines proven techniques with the latest research, so you can feel confident you’re in safe, skilled hands.
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No two people—or injuries—are the same. That’s why I offer 60-minute one-to-one sessions, giving us time to:
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Thoroughly assess your condition
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Provide focused, effective treatment
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0900 - 1330
Closed (Family Time!)
** Please note that online sessions can sometimes be arranged outside of normal clinical hours on request.**