The L5 Vertebra: Everything You Need to Know

The spine, consisting of 33 individual bones called vertebrae, is divided into five major regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), lumbar (lower back), sacral (pelvic region), and coccygeal (tailbone). These vertebrae are separated by intervertebral discs, which act as cushions and allow for flexibility in movement.

The lumbar spine, also known as the lower back, is comprised of the five largest and strongest vertebrae, typically referred to as L1 through L5. The lumbar region is located below the thoracic spine and above the sacral spine, positioned between the ribcage and the pelvis.

The lumbar spine is of paramount importance because ...