Mark Young , MD Introduction Biomechanics play an extremely important role in movement and must be considered when evaluating and treating pain in the musculoskeletal system . This chapter will focus on the important role of the lumbar spine in the pathoetiology and treatment of pain arising in the musculoskeletal system . The Spine : The Musculoskeltal “ Backbone " The human spine is a complex structure and its principle function is to protect the spinal cord and transfer loads from the head and trunk to the pelvis and to the lower extremities . The human spine is composed of 24 vertebrae , each articulating with each other in a fashion that enables motion in free planes . The spine achieves stability from the intervertebral discs and from the surrounding ligaments and muscles . The ligaments and the discs provide intrinsic stability and the muscles give extrinsic support . The forthcoming chapter will review the basic features and characteristics of key structures of the spine and th...
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