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Spinal cord anatomy

Illustration copyright 2002 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

The spinal cord is a nerve that extends from the base of the brain to the lower back. It runs through the spinal canal and is protected by the bones of the spine (vertebrae). Messages between the brain and the nerve roots travel up and down the spinal cord, making it possible for the brain and body to communicate. The discs cushion the vertebrae and provide flexibility to the spine and spinal cord.

Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD
- Orthopedics
Last Updated March 7, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 07, 2006
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