- Cervical – the 7 vertebrae in the neck are cervical vertebrae. The first cervcial vertebrae is also called “atlas” and it sits just under the foramin magnum and the skull
- Thoracic – the 12 vertebrae in the mid back are thoracic vertebrae.
- Lumbar – the 5 vertebrae in the low back are lumbar vertebrae.
- Sacrum/Coccyx – the sacrum is the made up of 5 fused vertebrae at the base of the spine. The wings attach to the pelvis.
- Lordotic curve – the curves that both the cervical and lumbar vertebrae naturally have. It is a “C” curve that allows us to hold our head up and for us to walk. The outside of the curve (convex side) is toward the front of the body.
- Kyphotic Curve – is the curve of the thoracic region. Again it is a “C” curve with the convex side toward your back.
- Adjustment – the moving of a vertebrae by a chiropractor to realign it and to reduce a vertebral subluxation. The many different techniques that a chiropractor can use manipulate the spine and give an adjustment.
- Discopathy – the discs are the cushions between the verbetbrae in your spine. The actually make up about one quarter of your height (when you are young). The center of the disc has center that is gelatinous and acts like a ball bearing in the mechanics of the spine. The discs can actually completely wear out and become non-existant. As you get older, the discs (through normal wear and tear as well as injuries) lose some of their water and elasticity. As the disc ages, it can become susceptible to tears as well. These tears are usually referred to as bulges, and or disc ruptures.
Definitions and Terms of Chiropractic:
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