Lülisammast

Lülisammast, commonly known as the spine or vertebral column, is a bony structure that extends from the skull to the pelvis. It is a fundamental component of the skeletal system in vertebrates, providing support, protection, and facilitating movement. The lülisammast is composed of a series of individual bones called vertebrae, which are stacked one on top of another.

These vertebrae are categorized into distinct regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (chest), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvic), and coccygeal (tailbone). Each vertebra has a unique shape and size, adapted to its specific location and function within the spine. The cervical vertebrae, for instance, are smaller and more flexible to allow for head movement. The thoracic vertebrae are larger and articulate with the ribs, forming the rib cage. The lumbar vertebrae are the largest and strongest, designed to support the weight of the upper body. The sacrum is a fused triangular bone that connects the spine to the pelvis, and the coccyx is a small, fused bone at the very end of the spine.

Between each vertebral body, there are intervertebral discs, which are made of cartilage. These discs act as shock absorbers, cushioning the vertebrae and allowing for flexibility and movement of the spine. The lülisammast also encloses and protects the spinal cord, a vital part of the central nervous system that transmits nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The curvature of the lülisammast, typically an S-shape, is essential for maintaining balance and distributing body weight efficiently. Deviations from these natural curves can lead to various spinal conditions.