Lumbar spine
Medical term · L
The lower portion of the spine. It includes the five lowermost bones (vertebrae) of the spine and is the start of the lower back.
Related terms
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Lumbar stenosisNarrowing of the spinal canal in the lower portion of the spine (known as the lumbar spine).
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Lumbar punctureA procedure in which a hollow needle is inserted into the lower part of the spinal canal to withdraw fluid for testing. Also called a spinal tap.
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Lower esophageal sphincterA ring of muscle where the esophagus and stomach meet. It relaxes to let food into the stomach and closes to prevent stomach acids from backing up and irritating the esophagus.