What is the spine?
The spine is our backbone and extends from our necks to our tailbones. It consists of 33 relatively small bones, called vertebrae. The spine is an integral part of our bodies. Without a spine, we would not be able to sit, stand or walk. The spine houses and protects our spinal cord, absorbing shock and allowing us to bend and twist. Hundreds of muscles, ligaments and tendons are attached to our spines.