The spine is an important part of the human body. It plays a crucial role in supporting the body’s structure and facilitating movement. Despite its importance, the spine is often misunderstood. Orthopedic and spine specialists believe this leads to unnecessary fear and anxiety about spinal health.
In fact, over 100 million people in the United States alone struggle with chronic spine and back pain. This chronic pain significantly impacts their daily lives and overall well-being.
Let’s understand the anatomy of the spine and common spine conditions so you can make informed decisions about spinal care and maintain optimal spinal health.
What Is the Spine?
The spine, also called the backbone, is made up of 33 small bones called vertebrae. These bones are placed on top of each other. They form a long column from your head to your lower back.
Your spine has three primary sections:
- Cervical Spine: This is the neck area and includes the first 7 vertebrae.
- Thoracic Spine: This is the middle part of your back and includes 12 vertebrae.
- Lumbar Spine: This is the lower part of your back and includes 5 vertebrae.
At the bottom of the spine, there are also the sacrum and coccyx. These are made up of fused (joined together) vertebrae.
Parts Around the Vertebrae
Here are some structures around your vertebrae:
- Discs: Between each vertebra are discs. These act like cushions to absorb shock when you move.
- Spinal Cord: This is a bundle of nerves that runs through a canal in the vertebrae. It carries signals between your brain and the rest of your body.
- Muscles and Ligaments: These support the spine and help with movement.
Common Spine Conditions
Now, let us look at some common problems affecting the spine:
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is when the spine curves sideways. Sometimes, it is mild. But other times, scoliosis may need treatment, like wearing a brace or surgery.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc happens when one of the discs between your vertebrae gets damaged and presses on the nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in your back, arms, or legs.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis makes bones less dense and weaker. It can cause fractures in the spine, which can lead to back pain and a hunched posture.
Spinal Stenosis
This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the back, legs, or arms. It often affects older adults.
Taking Care of Your Spine
Caring for your spine is necessary for preventing back pain and other spine-related problems. Orthopedic and spine specialists can help you find the best strategies for your specific condition.
1. Stay Active and Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity, like walking, swimming, or yoga, helps keep your spine strong and flexible. Exercise strengthens the muscles that support your spine and improves your posture.
2. Maintain Good Posture
Good posture means keeping your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned. Do not slouch when sitting or standing. Also, use a chair with good lumbar support when sitting for long periods.
3. Lift Heavy Objects Properly
Your back should be straight when you lift something heavy. Bend your knees and use your legs, not your back, to lift the object. Make sure not to twist your body while lifting.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D helps keep your bones strong. To get calcium, you want to eat more dairy products, fortified cereals, and leafy green. Vitamin D is essential for your body to effectively absorb calcium. Therefore, spend some time in the sun (especially in the morning) or eat foods fortified with vitamin D.
5. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Drinking
Smoking can weaken the bones and reduce blood flow to the spine, increasing the risk of back problems. Too much alcohol can also weaken bones and lead to injuries.
When to Visit Orthopedic and Spine Specialists
Knowing when to see orthopedic and spine specialists is important. Consider visiting a spine specialist when you experience the following:
- Persistent Pain: If back or neck pain does not go away after a few weeks, visit a spine specialist.
- Severe Pain: Debilitating pain, which makes daily activities hard, needs medical attention.
- Numbness or Weakness: Tingling, numbness, or weakness in arms or legs can mean nerve pressure.
- Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: This serious issue requires immediate medical care.
- Injury: See orthopedic and spine specialists if you hurt your back or neck from an accident or fall.
Seeing orthopedic and spine specialists can help you get the right diagnosis and treatment. This way, you can feel better and prevent further problems.
Reliable Orthopedic and Spine Specialists in Boynton Beach, FL
At Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches, we have board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors with expertise in diagnosing and treating orthopedic injuries and conditions of the hip, knee, shoulder, neck, back, and hands. At our orthopedic center, you can also benefit from the expertise of orthopedic surgeons, spine specialists, and physical therapists under one roof.
For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (561) 733-5888 or use our appointment request form.
Let us help you take utmost care of your spine. We look forward to serving you!
