Spinal Anatomy, Mobility, Balance, and Deformity
The spinal column is formed of vertebrae and intervertebral discs. The vertebral column contains the spinal cord, nerve roots, dura, and blood vessels within the vertebral canal. In brief, the spine allows for flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotatory movement. Human mobility and posture importantly depend on the structural integrity and homeostasis of spinal balances (particularly sagittal and coronal balances). The derangement of structural integrity and the alteration of spinal balance homeostasis lead to spinal deformities like kyphosis, scoliosis, and kyphoscoliosis. This chapter will shortly discuss spinal anatomy, mobility, spinal balance, and spinal deformity. The principles of the management of common spinal deformities such as kyphosis and scoliosis will also be discussed.
