
	Basic Anatomy for Beginners: Types of Pain Intervertebral Disc The Spinal Ligaments The Sacrum The Vertebra

Basic Anatomy for Beginners

By understanding basic anatomy, and what is in and around your back, you can have a better idea of what can go wrong there!

Human anatomy is quite complex but it can be simplified and broken down into regions and different systems. This makes the anatomy much easier to understand and will improve your knowledge of what is going on there.

The description here of various aspects of your back is written in a very basic, easy-to-understand manner. If you want more technical details then please look elsewhere. I am trying to demystify things here! Do remember that even though each structure is explained in isolation, everything is inter-related and works in unison. No single structure is an island!

The Anatomy!

The basic structure of the spine is made up of individual vertebrae. These are stacked upon each other to form the spinal column. The 5 lowest vertebrae make up the lumbar region, and together with the sacrum, make up the lower back.

The vertebrae are separated from each other by in intervertebral disc. The discs have several functions, one of which is to give the spine its mobility. One of the main functions of the spinal column is to provide protection for the nerves. The spinal cord and nerves are the roads by which information travels to and from the brain.

Surrounding the spine are strong ligaments. These anchor down the vertebrae without limiting its mobility, thereby supporting the spinal column. The whole spinal column is then covered by numerous layers of muscles. The muscles vary in size and function. They provide the active force necessary for movement and also actively support the spine itself.

In a nutshell, that is a quick overview of the spinal column and the lower back. This quick overview of basic anatomy will hopefully aid your understanding of lower back pain. Ensure you click on the links to get further information on each of the structures.