What is the Lumbar Spine?
The lumbar spine is a complex system of bones, muscles, cartilage, and nerves designed to support the weight of the upper body while allowing movement in multiple directions. The low back officially begins with the lumbar region of the spine directly below the cervical and thoracic regions and directly above the sacrum. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae called L1 through L5.
The Lumbar Intervertebral Disc
Between each vertebra is a disc; a shock-absorbing pillow that helps maintain proper spacing, stability, and motion within the lumbar spine. Each disc has a fibrous, tire-like outer band (called the annulus fibrosus) that encases a central gel-like substance (called the nucleus pulposus). The nucleus and annulus work together to absorb shock, help stabilize the spine, and provide a controlled range of motion between each vertebra.
