If you’re wondering if you can survive without a spinal cord, the answer is no. The spine sends messages from your brain to your body, helping you control your body’s movements and assisting in your organs’ normal functioning. Learn more about your spine and what you can do to keep it healthy.
Structure and Function of the Spine
The spine consists of several essential parts that help with posture and general mobility. The anatomy of the spine consists of the following:
- Vertebrae
- Discs
- Spinal cord
- Nerves
The functions of the spine include:
- Provides structural support for the body
- Protects the spinal cord
- Enables movement and flexibility
- Connects to the central nervous system
Why the Spine Is Essential for Life
The importance of the spine in the human body cannot be overstated. We often think of our spine as simply bones, but the truth is that the spine plays more important roles and functions, including:
Transmits Signals Between the Brain and Body
The spine protects the spinal cord, a group of nerves that allow the body to move freely. As the spinal cord relays messages to and from your brain to your body, your body has flexibility, and your organs function as they should.
Supports Vital Organs
The spine consists of three main sections, including the top part behind the neck (cervical spine), the middle part behind the upper and middle back (thoracic spine) and the lower part of the back (lumbar spine).
In particular, the thoracic spine protects your heart and lungs and helps support your rib cage.
Impacts Mobility and Posture
The spine keeps the body upright and helps you stand up. Lumbar spine issues, which can include poor muscle strength and a lack of muscle flexibility or stability, can affect the body’s mobility overall.
What Happens if the Spine Is Damaged?
If the spine is severely damaged, a person can either lose some sensory functions or experience partial or total paralysis:
- Loss of sensory function: When sensory function is lost, some nerves running through the spinal cord may have been damaged. Examples include losing control over muscle movements or not sensing pain in specific areas of the body.
- Partial or complete paralysis: Depending on the severity of the injury, spinal damage may result in partial or complete paralysis. This may include losing mobility in the lower part of the body or losing all mobility.
Protecting Your Spine
What can you do today to take control of your spine health? Here are a few tips:
- Practice proper posture when sitting and walking. Keep your head aligned over your shoulders, and remember to engage your core muscles when sitting or standing.
- Engage in regular exercise with a focus on core strength. Exercises may include beginner yoga poses or lifting appropriately sized weights. Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise or yoga program.
- Be careful when lifting heavy objects. Always bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid injury.
- Try exercising in water. Water therapy can help alleviate pain and improve your overall mobility and flexibility. The buoyancy of the water reduces pressure on your spine’s vertebrae and helps you strengthen your core. Remember to consult with your doctor before starting a water therapy program.
Learn More and Contact Spine Institute of North America for a Consultation
Your spine is crucial to your body’s function, which is why keeping it strong and healthy is vital. To learn more about your spine, call the Spine Institute of North America at 609-371-9100 or contact us online to make an appointment.
