The Spine is Your Body’s Lifeline
This entire spinal cord-related nervous system is enclosed within and protected by the spinal bones (vertebrae). The adult spine contains 24 vertebrae and extends from the base of the skull to the pelvis. These include:
- Seven cervical (neck) vertebrae, labeled C1 to C7. These create a gentle inward curve at the base of the head.
- Twelve thoracic vertebrae, labeled T1 to T12, which move outward at the shoulders and back in toward the lower spine.
- Five lumbar vertebrae, labeled L1 to L5, which create the gentle arch at the small of the back.


The Cervical Vertebrae
The pressure created by misalignments and abnormalities at the top of the spine beneath the skull in the cervical region can affect the communication between the brainstem and spinal cord. The nervous system in the cervical area contributes to:
- Breathing
- Maintaining the heart rate
- Overseeing muscle functions
- Poper circulation of the arms, elbows, and wrists
- Issues with asthma and lung health
- Vision problems
- Headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines
- Auditory sensations, such as ringing in the ears
The Thoracic Vertebrae
The thoracic spine extends from the top of the shoulders to the mid-back. The nerves extending from the thoracic spine reach throughout the middle of the body. The esophagus, lungs, and heart can be affected by the cervical and thoracic spine in different ways. The thoracic spine also connects nerves to the organs in the middle body, including the upper digestive system, adrenal glands, and liver. A chiropractic spinal adjustment here can benefit those areas of the body.

