Middenstekel

Middenstekel, also known as the "middle spine" or "vertebral column," is a crucial anatomical structure in the human body. It is a flexible column composed of 33 individual bones called vertebrae, which are interconnected by intervertebral discs and surrounded by the spinal cord and spinal nerves. The spinal column extends from the base of the skull to the sacrum, providing structural support and protection for the spinal cord, which is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

The spinal column is divided into five regions: the cervical (neck), thoracic (chest), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvis), and coccygeal (tailbone). Each region has a specific number of vertebrae, with the cervical region having 7, the thoracic region having 12, the lumbar region having 5, the sacral region having 5 fused vertebrae, and the coccygeal region having 4 fused vertebrae. The intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, allowing for smooth movement and protecting the spinal cord from injury.

The spinal column plays a vital role in maintaining posture, facilitating movement, and protecting the spinal cord. It also houses the spinal cord, which is a bundle of nerves that transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal column is susceptible to various conditions, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis, which can cause pain, numbness, and weakness. Treatment options for spinal column conditions may include physical therapy, medication, surgery, or a combination of these approaches.