Word parts
What it means
It is made up of 7 cervical vertebrae in the neck, 12 thoracic vertebrae in the upper back, 5 lumbar vertebrae in the lower back, and the sacrum and coccyx at the base, each made of fused bones. Discs of cartilage between the vertebrae act as cushions. The column supports the body, lets it bend and twist, and protects the spinal cordSPY-nul KORDThe long bundle of nerves that runs down through the backbone and carries messages between the brain and the body.Full entry .
For the nurse
After a possible spinal injury, keep the head, neck and back in line and move the client by log-rolling with enough helpers.
At a glance
| Spanish | columna vertebral |
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Related terms
spinal cord
The long bundle of nerves that runs down through the backbone and carries messages between the brain and the body.
vertebra
One of the bones that stack together to form the spine.
scoliosis
A sideways curve of the spine.
sacrum
The large, triangle-shaped bone at the base of the spine, between the two hip bones.