The lumbar spine, a critical segment of our backbone, holds the significant responsibility of supporting our upper body’s weight and enabling our mobility. Positioned between the thoracic spine above and the sacral spine below, it encompasses five vertebrae labeled L1 to L5. These vertebrae are notably larger, serving as the primary shock absorbers when we lift or carry heavy objects.
For a detailed cross-sectional view of the spine, both dorsal (back to front) and lateral (side views), one can refer to this illustration. In the event of injuries to this lumbar segment, individuals might experience functional impairments, affecting the hips, legs, and even bladder control.
Below the lumbar is the sacral region, composed of vertebrae S1-S5. This section is highlighted by a distinctively large bone situated at the spine’s base. On the topic of spinal fractures, especially in the lumbar area, they can exert undue pressure on spinal nerves. This pressure, often painful, can stem from a fracture in the vertebral body. For severe cases, surgical intervention, such as vertebral body replacement, becomes crucial. Such surgeries primarily aim to alleviate spinal cord and nerve pressures, which are achieved by either laminectomy (removal of the lamina) or corpectomy (removal of the vertebral body). For more on vertebral body replacement surgeries, click here.
Then, there’s the anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) procedure. It may sometimes involve the intervertebral disc found between the L5 vertebra and the sacral spine’s topmost vertebra, S1. Learn more about the ALIF procedure here.
However, one question that often emerges when discussing lumbar surgeries is the difference between a Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) and a Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF). This is a topic of interest for many, and you can dive deep into their distinctions here.
In conclusion, the lumbar region of our spine is a pillar of strength, versatility, and complexity. Ensuring its health is vital for overall well-being and quality of life.
