How are the levels of the lumbar spine numbered?

Each lumbar spinal level is numbered from top to bottom—L1 through L5, or L6. The low back vertebral bodies are larger, thicker block-like structures of dense bone. From the front (or anterior), the vertebral body appears rounded.

How does the lumbar spine support the lower back?

Lumbar Spine 1 Lumbar Structures Create Strong Joint Complex. A single intervertebral disc separates 2 vertebral bodies, and together with the facet joints forms a strong joint complex that enables the spine to 2 Low Back Supported by Lumbar Ligaments, Tendons and Muscles. 3 Lumbar Spine Nerves. 4 4 Ways to Protect Your Low Back.

How are the vertebrae stacked in the lumbar spine?

Two consecutive vertebrae, such as L4-L5, stacked vertically. An intervertebral disc that has a soft inner gelatinous core surrounded by a tough fibrous covering is situated between the vertebrae. The disc acts like a shock absorber in the spine, allowing flexibility and providing protection from jarring movements.

How does the lumbar spine transfer loads to the legs?

The lumbar spine also transfers loads from the upper body to the legs. 2 Allow truncal movements. The lower back is the primary facilitator for movements of the trunk in various directions, including front and back, side to side, and twisting movements. 3 Movement mostly occurs in the last two vertebral levels. 4

What makes up the structure of the spine?

The Spine Diagram The spine diagram shown below, consists of many bones or vertebrae,soft discs,the spinal cord, and spinal nerves. The spine anatomy is a complex structure. Simply put: the vertebrae, which stack like spools of thread, support the back and protect the spinal cord.

What kind of bones are in the lumbo sacral spine?

The lumbo-sacral spine includes: Lumbar vertebrae: Numbered L1 through L5, these odd-shaped vertebrae signal the end of the typical bones of the spinal column. Sacrum: This triangle-shaped bone is made up of five fused vertebrae. Coccyx: This small bone is better known as the tailbone.

What are the names of the vertebrae in the lumbar spine?

Lumbar vertebrae: Numbered L1 through L5, these odd-shaped vertebrae signal the end of the typical bones of the spinal column. Sacrum: This triangle-shaped bone is made up of five fused vertebrae. It fits like a wedge into the back of the pelvis at the hips. Coccyx: This small bone is better known as the tailbone.