Medically reviewed by Jennifer Steinhoff, MD Key Takeaways The lumbar spine includes five vertebrae that help with mobility and stability.Lumbar vertebrae are larger because they carry the load from ...

The spine, or backbone, is a long column of bones that runs down the center of a person’s back. It is essential for many functions, such as movement, support, and protecting the spinal cord. A ...

The spinal cord is the body’s main communication highway, carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Understanding its anatomy—from protective layers to nerve pathways—can help ...

The vertebral column’s most important physiologic function is protecting the spinal cord, which is the main avenue for communication between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord is ...