The spinal cord consists of 13.5 million neurons. The spinal cord is very flexible and can withstand hundreds of kilograms of pressure. When you lie flat on your back with your knees raised, you are putting 11 kilograms of pressure on your spine. The spine is covered with cartilage that accounts for 25% of its length. It is the first bone to form in the womb and carries a million nerve messages every day.
Is flexible
The spine, also known as the vertebral column, is made up of 33 individual vertebrae, which are flexible, giving the spine the ability to bend and twist. The spine also protects the spinal cord, a cord of nerve tissue that runs from the brain to the different body parts. A healthy spine provides the body with strong muscles. However, spine injury or disease can result in pain or restricted movement.
Protects spinal cord
The spinal cord is protected by the spine, which is made up of vertebrae (hard bony structures) that form a chain down the middle of the back. The spinal cord lies in the center of this chain. Between the vertebrae are the meninges, which are membranes that surround the brain. Between the two membranes lies cerebrospinal fluid, a clear liquid that protects and nourishes the spinal cord.
Is a hub of nerve signals
The spine is a hub of nerve signals that travels from the brain to the rest of the body. It serves as the central control room, sending messages to the muscles and skin to control body functions. The spine is made up of 24 individual vertebrae and two bones called the sacrum and coccyx. There are over 30 muscles and tendons in the spine, providing stability and mobility.
Is responsible for voluntary movements
Voluntary movements of the human body are coordinated by the spinal cord and brainstem. The corticospinal tract is a white matter motor pathway that originates from the cerebral cortex and travels along the spinal cord. This nerve pathway controls movement of the limbs, trunk, and face.
It is sensitive to PKMzeta
Studies have shown that the spinal cord is highly sensitive to PKMzeta. This isoform of protein kinase C has been implicated in the maintenance of pain hypersensitivity. The evidence for spinal PKMz’s role in pain hypersensitivity comes from studies on short-lived nociception, as well as longer-term studies of pain.
It is a triangular bone
The spine is a triangular bone that is connected to the rest of the body by a complex network of ligaments and joints. There are two main parts to the spine: the sacrum and the coccyx. These bones are connected by cartilage and fused joints and make up the lower third of the spine. This allows the spine to move freely.
It is durable
Did you know that your spine is one of the most flexible parts of your body? There are facet joints at every level of your spine, making it incredibly flexible. A single twist of your spine can bend it almost two-thirds of the way around. The spinal cord is only 35 grams, but it can support hundreds of kilograms of pressure. In fact, the human spine is so flexible, astronauts can be up to 3% taller after returning from space!
