Rachis can be used as a synonym for vertebral column.
Rachis is a concept that derives from Greek and that, in the field of anatomy , is used as a synonym for vertebral column . The spine, in this sense, is the structure formed by bones, cartilage and fibers that is found in the midline of vertebrate beings.
In the case of humans , the spine extends from the head to the pelvis , allowing the individual to stand and perform various movements. The spine has thirty-three vertebrae that articulate with each other and extend for about 75 centimeters in the body of an adult.
Spinal areas
Specifically, all these vertebrae are distributed from the different areas or curvatures into which the rachis or column is divided:
- Cervical curvature , composed of seven cervical vertebrae.
- Dorsal curvature , in which twelve dorsal vertebrae are found.
- Lumbar curvature , where the lumbar vertebrae are located.
- Sacral curvature , which is identified because it does not have mobility.
Problems affecting the spine
Maintaining the center of gravity, protecting the spinal cord and providing support to the skeleton are the main functions of the spine. Damage to the spinal column , therefore, can have very serious consequences, since this structure plays a very important role in the body.
There are various diseases and problems that affect the spine. However, among the most frequent, these two can be highlighted:
- Scoliosis , which consists of a lateral deviation of the spine and which can be corrected if discovered in time.
- Lumbar hyperlordosis . Under this complex name there is a considerable increase in lumbar curvature. When it appears in childhood, it is the result of children adopting incorrect postures. And this also happens in adults, although in this case it may also be due to other situations, such as excessive use of heels, trauma of some kind, overexertion...
The axial sector of the feathers and spikes is known as the rachis.
The spine and sport
In order to avoid having to deal with certain problems in the spine, it is recommended that anyone choose to undertake actions that become preventive measures. It is established that one of the most effective is the practice of exercise .
Thus, through sport, it is considered that any person will significantly improve in aspects such as balance , muscle power, respiratory work, posture and even flexibility. All aspects that are ideally worked on in disciplines such as swimming .
Other uses of the term
The rachis, on the other hand, can be the axial sector of the feathers, spikes and other structures of living beings. This is the part that acts as an axis and that favors the development of the structure in question.
If we focus on the feathers, the rachis is the stem that is inserted into the skin of the bird. The hollow sector that enters the body is known as the calamus . When another branch emerges from the calamus, similar to a feather but smaller, this structure is called hyporachis . The feather is completed with the beards , also called fringes .