The spine is broken down into three main areas: Cervical Spine, Thoracic Spine and Lumber Spine. (See description of each below).

Vertebrae Define Sections of the Spine

The spine is divided into 4 major sections, typically defined by the number of vertebrae (the round bones that make up the structure of one’s back bone) in each section. Vertebrae are also sometimes called vertebral bodies.

Cervical spine (neck) — comprised of 7 cervical vertebrae (termed C1 to C7). Neck problems can cause neck pain and/or pain that radiates down the arms to the hands and fingers. Other symptoms associated with misalignment in this region include: headaches, dizziness, ear infections, sinus problems, allergies, ringing or buzzing in your ears, pain behind your eyes, sore throat, throat infections, fatigue, memory loss and lack of concentration.

Thoracic spine (upper back) — made up of 12 thoracic vertebrae (known as T1 to T12). Because this part of the spine is firmly attached to the ribs and sternum, it is very stable and has fewer problems associated with motion.  Symptoms associated with misalignment in this region include: chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, heart murmur, recurring bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, respiratory infections, stomach problems, heartburn, indigestion, gas and bloating.

Lumbar spine (lower back) — typically including 5 vertebrae (known as L1 to L5), which have a great deal of motion and flexibility. Because this section of the spine bears most of the body’s weight and allows for the most motion (which stresses the anatomical structures), this is the area associated with most back problems. Problems in the low back can cause pain that radiates down the legs to the feet. People with back problems that get better within a few weeks usually have a strained muscle (a pulled muscle) or other soft tissue damage. However, many back problems that don’t get better within a few months are caused by some type of problem with a spinal disc or nerve. Symptoms associated with misalignment in this region include: constipation, diarrhea, frequent urination, cramping menstrual pain, irregular menses, recurring bladder infections, recurring urinary tract infections, difficulty getting pregnant, impotence, sciatica, and weakness in legs.