Your body relies on a healthy spine for several reasons:
Support and Structure: The spine acts as the central pillar of your body. It’s a column of vertebrae that connects your head to your pelvis, providing the framework for your entire body, which allows you to stand upright, bend, twist, and move with flexibility.
- Nerve Protection: Running through the center of your spine is the spinal cord, a bundle of nerves that carries messages between your brain and the rest of your body. The vertebrae create a protective canal around the spinal cord, shielding it from injury.
- Movement and Flexibility: The spine isn’t a rigid rod; it has a natural curve that allows for a wide range of motion. This flexibility is essential for everyday activities like bending over to pick something up, twisting to reach for an object, or walking.
- Pain Prevention: When the spine is misaligned, injured, or degenerates, it can lead to a variety of painful conditions like sciatica, disc herniation, and muscle strain. Maintaining a healthy spine helps prevent these issues and keeps you moving comfortably.
- Balance and Coordination: The spine plays a role in your body’s balance and coordination. The nerves that exit the spinal cord send signals to your muscles, allowing them to work together to maintain balance and coordinate your movements.
When your spine is healthy, it contributes to your overall well-being. It allows you to move freely, participate in activities you enjoy, and maintain good posture, which can even boost your confidence and mood. Taking care of your spine is an investment in your long-term health and quality of life.
Dr. Darakchiev is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon skilled in diagnosing and treating a variety of brain, spine and peripheral nerve disorders. To schedule an appointment, please call 631-690-9080.
