Back
Back
The back (/bæk/; from Old English bæc) is the large posterior area of the human body, rising from the top of the buttocks to the back of the neck and the shoulders. It is the surface of the body opposite from the chest and the abdomen.
Anatomy
The back comprises the vertebral column, also known as the spine, which houses the spinal cord, a major component of the central nervous system. The vertebral column is made up of 33 individual bones, known as vertebrae, which are divided into five regions: the cervical spine, thoracic spine, lumbar spine, sacrum, and coccyx.
The back is also home to numerous muscles, including the latissimus dorsi, trapezius, and rhomboid muscles, which enable movements such as lifting, pulling, and twisting.
Medical Conditions
Various medical conditions can affect the back, including back pain, which is one of the most common health complaints. Other conditions include scoliosis, a curvature of the spine; herniated disc, where the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing; and spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spaces within your spine.
Treatment
Treatment for back conditions can range from conservative methods such as physical therapy and pain management, to more invasive procedures such as spinal surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and cause of the back condition.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Back
- Wikipedia's article - Back
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