Key points of spinal anatomy:

• Spinal bones are called vertebrae.
• The spine is formed by 24 vertebrae.
• A disc sits between each vertebral set.
• The disc has two parts: the inner nucleus, and the outer annulus.
• A bony ring on the back of each vertebra forms the spinal canal that protects the spinal cord.
• Two facet joints sit between each vertebral set, one on the left and one on the right.

A spinal segment is made up of:

• Two vertebrae, one on top of the other.
• A disc between the two vertebrae.
• Two nerves that leave the spinal cord at each level, one on the left and one on the right.
• The small facet joints that link the two vertebrae together.

The spine has three natural curves.

• The neck and low back curve inward (lordosis).
• The midback curves outward (kyphosis).
• The spinal curves help balance and cushion the spine.

Spine health is maximized by keeping the spine balanced, or centered.

• When the parts of the spine are out of balance, they don't work as well
• Using imbalanced postures upsets lifelong spine health.
• Imbalanced spine postures may not cause pain right away.
• The neutral spine position combats abnormal and excessive strain on the back.

Aerobic exercise is an important part of recovery after
back pain.

• It is recommended in most guidelines for treating low back pain.
• It can help relieve the stress that often goes along with having back pain.
• It can help keep you fit.
• It can help your body release endorphins, the body's own natural painkiller.