When we think about the spine, we need to consider both the bones and the ligamentsLigaments are strong bands of fibrous tissue that hold two bones together at joints. They differ from tendons, which join muscles to bones and which move joints when muscles contract. that hold them together, as well as the spinal cordThe main nerve trunk running down the spinal canal and connecting the individual’s mind and consciousness to the rest of his or her body. It is about the size of a person’s little finger, in diameter. It cannot repair itself if damaged. and the nerves that issue from it. The spinal cordThe main nerve trunk running down the spinal canal and connecting the individual’s mind and consciousness to the rest of his or her body. It is about the size of a person’s little finger, in diameter. It cannot repair itself if damaged. and nerves together make up the neural elementsThe brain, the spinal cord and the nerves that connect these structures to all parts of the body can be referred to as neural elements, to distinguish them from other parts, in particular their protective coverings, such as the meninges and skeletal elements.. The bones and ligamentsLigaments are strong bands of fibrous tissue that hold two bones together at joints. They differ from tendons, which join muscles to bones and which move joints when muscles contract. are the skeletal elements.