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Chiropractic Review: Primary Spinal Anatomy

Chiropractic and Neck Pain: Conservative Care of Cervical Disorders

Arn Strasser, DC
Chiropractor
Strasser Chiropractic Center
Portland, Oregon
Even a brief survey of the cervical spine highlights its exquisite construction. Seven delicate vertebrae make up the bony structure of the neck, cushioned by the same disc material as is found in our low backs. These discs, made up of concentric circles of fibrous material with a firm, gel-like center, act as shock absorbers for the considerable mechanical demands placed on the neck.

spinal level
Primary Spinal Anatomy
The image above is a general illustration of spinal
anatomy and is not an exact replica of the cervical spine.

Strong ligaments along the front and rear of the body of the vertebrae along with additional ligaments between the vertebrae's bony prominences bind the vertebra together. These ligaments also have a neurological function: nervous elements in ligaments help the brain to know where the body is in space.

ligaments
Spinal Ligaments
The image above is a general illustration of the spine's
ligaments and is not an exact replica of the cervical spine.

Last Updated: 03/08/2005
Continue Reading: Chiropractic Review: Spinal Facet Joints and Nerve Structures
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