Spine Anatomy

The cervical spine comprises of the first 7 vertebrae, which form the neck. Based on the structural diversity in the cervical spine, it can be divided into two parts: the upper and lower cervical spine. The upper cervical spine comprises of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2), which are different from rest of the cervical vertebrae.

The lumbar spine is composed of the lower 5 vertebrae, which have been numbered L1–L5. The lowest vertebra of the lumbar spine (L5) is connected to the top of the sacrum, which is a triangular bone present at the base of the spine fitting into the two pelvic bones. In some cases, an extra or sixth lumbar vertebra may be present.

The thoracic spine is the central part of the spine, also called the dorsal spine, which runs from the base of the neck to the bottom of your rib cage. The thoracic spine provides the flexibility that holds the body upright and protects the organs of the chest.