The spinal column is one of the most amazing and intricate structures within the human body.  Every part of the spine serves a specific purpose in protecting the spinal cord, maintaining posture and allowing for movement. From a mechanical perspective the complexity of the spine is unmatched in the architectural and engineering fields.

The spinal column provides flexibility for movement, support for weight bearing and protection of neurological structures. The dynamic and supportive properties of the normal spine are provided by 25 moveable vertebrae, over 100 elaborate joints, 23 intervertebral discs, more than 220 specialized ligaments, an intricate network of blood vessels and countless specialized nerve endings.