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How Many Vertebrae Make Up the Human Spine?

February 25, 2021 by Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants

How_Many_Vertebrae_Make_Up_Human_Spine

You may be searching for this question and we have the answer. The human spine is made up of 33 individual bones upon birth. As we grow into adulthood, most individuals will have about 24 vertebrae as the vertebrae at the bottom end of the spine fuse together. In rare instances, a person may have an additional vertebrae. This is typically located in the L6 area of the lumbar.

Important Functionalities of the Human Spine

There many important functionalities of the human spine, yet some of the most important are:

•The spine protects the spinal cord and sensitive nerves

•The spine provides strong structural support for our body

•The spine also supports around half of our body weight in most people

These functionalities, while often not thought about by most humans, are truly amazing. The spine is such an important part of the human body and for this reason it must be treated with great levels of care. 

Anatomy of the Spine

The anatomy of the spine is intricate, advanced, and complex; yet it cna be explained in some basic terms. The anatomy of the spine consists of the following:

•7 bones in the neck: the cervical spine

•12 bones in the chest: the thoracic spine

•5 bones in the lower back: the lumbar spine

•The sacrum: the base of the spine

What Does the Spinal Column Consist Of?

The spinal column is a bevy of different bones, ligaments, joints, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The spinal column is made up of the following:

•Vertebrae

•Back Muscles

•Cervical Spine

•Thoracic Spine

•Lumbar Spine

•Facet Joints

•Intervertebral Discs

•Lamina

•Ligaments

•Pedicles

•Spinal Canal

•Spinal Cord & Nerve Roots

•Transverse & Spinous Processes

•Sacrum

•Coccyx

Contact Us if You’re Experiencing Any Spine, Neck, or Back Issues

You’ll want to reach out to us here at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants if you’re experiencing issues with your spine, neck, or back. We’ll be sure to have you seen by one of our specialists as soon as possible. We look forward to addressing your condition and having you back to health as soon as possible.

DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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