摘要：

The spine lends support to the body and forms the fulcrum on which muscles act to cause motion and to resist inertial and external forces. In clinical terms it is most significant that it also provides flexible armor to the spinal cord and cauda equina. Owning in part to its unique, dual roles of support and protection and to the number of pain and other neurological problems arising in the spine, it has received widespread attention from scientists as well as clinicians. In addition to the obvious concern of physicians and surgeons in disorders of the spine, the allied professions also seek a better understanding of the nature of pain-related and otherwise disabling abnormalities. Others with a professional interest in the spine include those seeking a more basic understanding of its structure and function, both normal and abnormal, and of its tolerance to adverse environments and its susceptibility to damage.

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