Spinal Anatomy
The spinal column is approximately 18 inches long and extends from the base of the brain to just around the waist. It is divided into four sections: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. These bones support the body, but also protect the spinal cord. Inside the bones of the spine, there is a long fibrous tissue composed of nerves known as the spinal cord.
The spinal cord has the critical task of transmitting information from the brain to the rest of the body. Unfortunately, many spinal cord injuries permanently hamper or prevent this transfer of information from happening.
It could be critical to understand the anatomy of the spine when litigating a spinal injury case since precisely where such an injury occurs could greatly impact its severity. It is generally accepted that the body could be affected at any point below the injured portion of the spinal cord.