Spine-Simulator

CERVICAL

THORACIC

LUMBAR

SACRUM

COCCYX

Cervical Spine
C1-C7
Thoraic Spine
T1-T12
Lumbar Spine
L1-L5
Sacrum
Coccyx

Cervical Vertebrae

The cervical vertebrae are the 7 vertebrae that connect the base of the skull to the thoracic vertebrae, which marks the next section of the spine. They are referred to as C1-7. The size of the cervical vertebrae vary slightly, in that those at the top, nearest the base of the skull are smaller and more mobile, while those which are nearer the thoracic vertebrae are larger to support the weight of the head and neck. The function of the cervical vertebrae is to work with the muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints to provide mobility and stability to the head and neck while also protecting the spinal cord.

Thoracic Vertebrae

The thoracic vertebrae are a series of 12 bones found between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. They are referred to as T1-12 and are larger than those found in the neck. The main function of the thoracic spine is to hold and support the rib cage and to protect the heart and lungs. As a result, the range of motion in the thoracic spine is limited. Like all other vertebrae, they also support the weight of the upper body and protect the spinal cord as it passes down the length of the spine.

Lumbar Vertebrae

The lumbar vertebrae consist of 5 cylindrical bones that extend between the thoracic vertebrae and sacral region in the lower part of the back. These are referred to as L1-5 and are larger still than those found in the thoracic region. This is because they are responsible for carrying the weight of the upper body. They also enable us to bend, flex and twist and protect our spinal cord and the nerves within it.

Sacral Region

The sacral region, also called the sacral spine, houses 5 sacral vertebrae referred to as A1-5. However, these bones actually fuse together to create the sacrum – a shield-shaped bone that is located beneath the L5 lumbar vertebrae. This bone forms an ideal base that can support the weight of the entire body. You may be surprised to discover that at birth, the sacral vertebrae are separated by intervertebral discs. Fusion is a slow process that isn’t usually complete until around 30 years of age.

Coccygeal Region

The coccygeal region refers to the coccyx, which is a small, triangular bone that is found at the very bottom of the spine. It comprises of between 3 and 5 vertebrae that are roughly fused together. Many people refer to it as the tailbone since it resembles a short tail. The coccyx acts as a site where tendons, ligaments and muscles can attach. It is also an insertion point for some of the muscles of the pelvic floor and helps to support our bodies in a sitting position.