Michael Campanaro and Steve Smith Sr. were each forced from last Thursday's game against the Steelers due to apparent low back injuries. Initial reports characterized each as fairly insignificant, though we have now learned that Smith suffered four fractures and Campanaro is out for the season with a herniated disc. This article will provide an overview of their injuries and a detailed look at the anatomy involved.
GENERAL ANATOMY
The spine is one of the most complex structures in the human body. It consists of 33 vertebrae along with a number of intervertebral discs, facet joints, spinal nerves, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.