Understanding the Spinal Column: Neck & Back Bones Explained

Yes, the spinal column includes both neck bones and back bones. The spinal column is also called the vertebral column or backbone. It is a series of bones that runs from the skull to the tailbone. The spinal column protects the spinal cord and provides support for the body.

The spinal column is divided into five regions: the cervical region (neck), the thoracic region (upper back), the lumbar region (lower back), the sacral region (pelvis), and the coccygeal region (tailbone).

The cervical region consists of seven bones, called the cervical vertebrae. The thoracic region consists of 12 bones, called the thoracic vertebrae. The lumbar region consists of five bones, called the lumbar vertebrae. The sacral region consists of five fused bones, called the sacrum. The coccygeal region consists of four fused bones, called the coccyx.