What are the five sections of the spinal column in descending order?

The spinal column is composed of five distinct sections that organize the vertebrae from the top of the neck down to the tailbone. Understanding the correct order is essential for grasping human anatomy, especially in medical fields like emergency medical services.

The correct progression starts with the cervical section, which consists of seven vertebrae and supports the skull while allowing for a wide range of head movements. Following the cervical region is the thoracic section, which contains twelve vertebrae attached to the ribs, providing structural support for the thoracic cavity. Next is the lumbar section, made up of five larger vertebrae that bear significant weight and provide stability and mobility to the lower back.

After the lumbar region comes the sacral section, consisting of five fused vertebrae that form a solid base for the spine and connect to the pelvis. Finally, at the bottom of the spinal column is the coccygeal section, commonly known as the tailbone, which includes four fused vertebrae.

Understanding these sections in descending order—cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal—is crucial for EMTs, especially when assessing spinal injuries or understanding patient anatomy during treatment. The other options present a jumbled arrangement of