Lumbar Spine

The lumbar spine is the low back region of the spinal column. It is composed of 6 bones (L1-L5 and S1). The lumbar spinal column supports the low back and protects the lumbar spinal cord. The lumbar spinal cord communicates with the lower body, allowing for sensation and movement in the legs and feet.

The cervical spinal column is made up of 6 bones, L1-L5 and S1 (the first bone of the sacral spine). The 6 vertebrae are stacked on top of each other in order from L1 to L5, with S1 at the bottom. Each vertebrae is composed of a vertebral body and a vertebral arch. These two come together to create a hollow space, known as the spinal canal, which contains the spinal cord.

Lumbar Spinal Cord

Lumbar Spinal Column

The spinal cord, which begins at the bottom of the brainstem, ends around L1-L2. At this point, the spinal cord becomes the cauda equina (horse’s tail), which are bundles of nerve roots. The lumbar spinal cord and its nerves are responsible for controlling the legs. Additionally, the lumbar and sacral nerves control the urinary system.

MRI of lumbar spine

MRI of lumbar spine