The spinal column is an intricate framework of interlocking bones that, when viewed from the side, form a gentle "S" shape. The spine is a sophisticated system-both fragile and sturdy-of muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, discs, a spinal cord, and nerves. Joints, called "facet joints," and discs allow

Your nervous system looks much like an upended tree, suspended from its roots at the base of your brain, its millions of limbs reaching out to every corner of your body. Your spinal cord is like a thick braid formed by billions of these nerves. Your body has approximately 15 billion nerve cells-all

The soft tissues that envelop and support your spine make up an intricate network of muscles. With the help of your body's abdominal muscles, this network helps to keep your body stabilized and upright, and allows it to bend and flex. The types of muscles that support your spine include: Extensors