Gerinc

Gerinc, known in English as the spine or spinal column, is the central axis of the axial skeleton. It provides structural support for the body, protects the spinal cord, and allows a range of movements. The spine also transmits forces between the upper and lower body and serves as a attachment point for muscles, ribs, and other tissues.

The mature human spine consists of 24 movable vertebrae plus the fused sacrum and coccyx. These vertebrae are grouped into regions: cervical (seven), thoracic (twelve), and lumbar (five), followed by the sacrum and coccyx. Each vertebra has a vertebral body, a vertebral arch with processes, and a vertebral foramen that, together with adjacent vertebrae, forms the spinal canal. Between adjacent vertebrae lie intervertebral discs, which act as cushions. The discs have an outer annulus fibrosus and a gel-like nucleus pulposus. The spine is stabilized by ligaments, including the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, ligamentum flavum, and interspinous and supraspinous ligaments, as well as facet joints and surrounding muscles.

The spinal cord runs within the upper part of the spinal canal, from the brainstem down to about the level of the first or second lumbar vertebra, where it is protected by the cauda equina. Nerve roots exit at each vertebral level through the intervertebral foramina and branch to various body regions.

Common clinical considerations involve back pain, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, scoliosis, and spinal stenosis. Diagnosis commonly uses imaging such as X-ray, MRI, or CT. Maintenance focuses on posture, core-strengthening exercise, ergonomics, and risk factor management.