Regions of the Spine

Regions of the Spine: Overview

CERVICAL

The cervical, or neck section of the spine consists of 7 vertebrae, known as C1 to C7. The top cervical vertebra is connected to the base of the skull.

THORACIC

The thoracic section of the spine is located at the chest level, between the cervical & lumbar vertebrae. The 12 thoracic vertebrae, known as T1 to T12 also serve as attachments for the rib cage.

LUMBAR

The lumbar section of the spine is located between the thoracic vertebrae and the sacrum. The 5 lumbar vertebrae, known as levels L1 to L5, are the main weight bearing section of the spinal column.

SACRUM

The sacrum section of the spine is located near the base of the spine. The sacrum consists of 5 fused vertebrae, known as levels S1 to S5. It does not have discs separating the bones. The pelvis is connected to the spinal column at the sacrum section.

COCCYX

The coccyx, also called the tailbone, is at the base of the spinal column. It has four small vertebrae that are fused together