2. Objectives
By the end of the lesson you should be able to:
Name the 5 curves of the spine
Describe the structure and function of vertebral discus
State irregularities of the spine
3. Structure of Spine
What is section called?
How many vertebrae are found
in each?
Sacrum (5)
Thoracic (12)
Coccyx (5 Fused)
Cervical (7)
Lumbar (5)
4.
5.
6. Structure of Invertebral Discs
Fibro cartilaginous cushions
Acts as shock absorbers
Extension and Flexion can occur
Structures:
Facet Joints – Hinge like joints that
link vertebrae
Ligaments – Joins vertebrae and
restricts hyper extension and hyper
flexion
Foramen – Runs down spine and
houses spinal cord
Nucleus Pulposus – Gel that is inside
disc
7. Irregular Curvatures of Spine
Kyphosis, Lordosis and Scoliosis
Kyphosis
Ligaments become relaxed
Bone disease
Pain in neck and back
“Hump back” appearance
Video:
http://www.spinehealth.com/video
/kyphosis-video-what-kyphosis
8. Lordosis
Exaggerated lumbar curve
Muscles around hip and
spine become tight
Usually trunk extensors,
hip flexors and abdominals
These muscles should be
focussed on to repair
imbalances
9. Scoliosis
Spine twist or corkscrew
appearance
Imbalance in leg size
Weakened ligaments allow
abnormal curvature
Not always painful
Weight bearing activities can assist
Reduce muscular imbalances with
training
10. Scoliosis
Spine twist or corkscrew
appearance
Imbalance in leg size
Weakened ligaments allow
abnormal curvature
Not always painful
Weight bearing activities can assist
Reduce muscular imbalances with
training