What are the five vertebrae that make up the low back referred to as?

The five vertebrae that make up the low back are referred to as lumbar vertebrae. This region of the spine is crucial for supporting the weight of the upper body, allowing for a range of motion like bending and twisting, and protecting the delicate spinal cord that runs through the vertebral column.

Lumbar vertebrae are larger and more robust than those found in the cervical or thoracic regions, which is essential given the significant loads they must bear. The lumbar region plays a key role in maintaining proper posture and stability during various activities. It has a natural curve that helps distribute forces and provide shock absorption, contributing to overall spinal health.

In contrast, cervical vertebrae are found in the neck, thoracic vertebrae are located in the upper and mid-back connected to the ribs, and sacral vertebrae are fused together to form the sacrum at the base of the spine. Understanding these distinctions is important in sports medicine and anatomy as it relates to injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.