What Is the Lumbar Spine?
Lumbar Spine is the lower section of the vertebral column between the thoracic spine and pelvis. It contains vertebrae, discs, joints, nerves, and supporting soft tissues. This region helps carry body weight and coordinate movement through the lower back, pelvis, and legs during activities such as walking, lifting, and bending.
Quick Facts About Lumbar Spine
Category
Lower spinal region
Used for
Assessing lower-back structure and movement
Common confusion
Often confused with the sacroiliac joint
Also called
Lower Spine, Lower back
Often discussed with
Back Pain Treatment
Key Takeaways About Lumbar Spine
- The lumbar spine sits between the rib-bearing spine and pelvis.
- Its joints and discs contribute to lower-back movement.
- The lumbar spine is not the same as the sacroiliac joint.
How Lumbar Spine Works
The Lumbar Spine supports the trunk and transfers force toward the pelvis during movement. Its vertebrae form a flexible column, while discs help separate neighboring bones. Small joints guide motion, and nearby muscles and ligaments help control the lower back.
Related glossary terms: Intervertebral Disc, Sacroiliac Joint, Vertebra.
Clinicians consider the lumbar spine when reviewing posture, range of motion, walking patterns, and reported symptoms. A physical assessment may examine how the lower back moves with the hips and pelvis. The Intervertebral Disc and Sacroiliac Joint are related structures, but each has a different location and role.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Garden City team
When we assess the lumbar spine during Back Pain Treatment, we consider its movement alongside the hips and pelvis. We also review posture, muscle tension, and reported symptoms so our team can connect the examination findings with the person’s daily activities.
Lumbar Spine in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with lower-back discomfort after repeated lifting may have limited lumbar movement during bending. During Back Pain Treatment, the examination can consider lumbar motion together with hip movement and pelvic alignment.
Related Services
Related Terms
Intervertebral Disc
An intervertebral disc is a flexible pad between neighboring vertebrae that helps separate the spinal bones…
Sacroiliac Joint
Sacroiliac Joint is the connection between the sacrum at the base of the spine and the…
Vertebra
A vertebra is one of the individual bones that forms the spinal column. Each vertebra has…
Nerve Root
A nerve root is a bundle of nerve fibers that branches from the spinal cord through…
Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Garden City
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