The Human Spine - Understanding Its Structure

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Do you know the purpose of your spinal column? Do you what to learn more about the different parts that allow the human structure to bend and move in certain ways. Sometimes a visual and anatomical description can help you understand your "back" better? If you suffer from any kind of back pain issues, learning more about this part of the body can be extremely helpful. The spine is skeletons basic building blocks of which many body parts function around.

Basic Principles Of Your Spinal Column:

Your spine houses the spinal cord and protects it. This cord is intimately connected to the brain that has nerve fibers acting as relay station. This spine is the outer covering that protects these nerves as the body moves. One of the most basic functions of the spine it that it allows you freedom of movement to bend forward, backward, or side to side. Supporting your upper body, it holds up the head and allows you to assume an erect position. New born babies are a good example of what the spine is like before it is fully developed. The spine and neck muscles can't support the weight of the head, so a baby's head must be held upright by the parent until the spine is more evolved. The spine also serves as a point of attachment for the muscles and ligaments. It is the center of the skeleton that is needed to provide for the human structure, without it you would be a pile of muscle and tissue.

There are three basic natural curves that be divided into specific categories:

* Cervical Curve
* Thoracic Curve
* Lumbosacral Curve

The Cervical vertebrae are the seven bones in the upper spinal column that support the upper parts of the body. The Thoracic section resides in the middle of the back and includes 12 vertebrae. The Lumbar portion of the back resides in the lower back region containing five vertebrae including the sacrum. This section carries the majority of the weight. When in balance your back's spine should make a straight line from head to sacrum. You can increase the flexibility of your spine with the practice of Yoga techniques or basic stretches. This supports spinal awareness and good posture that is so important to keep this vital part of the body aligned and healthy.

Exercise is also one of the most significant factors in keeping your back and spine in good condition. It is important to stay active and move your body even during the older years of life. Maintaining a habit of ritual exercise that you enjoy is a part of any conditioning program that supports a "back pain free" way of living. In addition, deep breathing through aerobic exercise maintenance can help a great deal to prevent back problems at any age.

The anatomy of the human spine is the perfect architectural design full of intricacies that allow you to move and celebrate life. Giving your spine special attention through routine stretching, exercise and periodic massage can keep it healthy and strong, eliminating any kind of back pain before it becomes a problem.