The spine acts as the pillar of the body, so if we want to live full and active lives, it’s essential that it stays healthy. Here’s what you can do to keep it intact!
By Laura Childers
The Spine at a Glance
The spine is made up of 24 movable vertebrae that run from your neck all the way down your lower back.
- These are divided into three main regions:
- Cervical Spine – first seven vertebrae
- Thoracic Spine – following 12 vertebrae
- Lumbar Spine – last five vertebrae
If your spine is healthy, you should be able to stand upright, bend, twist, and more without any problems. Unfortunately, a large portion of Americans suffer from neck and back issues related to the spine or its surrounding tissues.
Keeping Your Spine Healthy
Certain things affecting spine health are impossible to avoid – like aging or contracting a disease. However, there are many things you can do to help keep your spine healthy as you age, like:
- not smoking
- getting regular exercise, with an emphasis on core strength
- maintaining good posture at work, in the car, and at home
- losing weight, if you need to drop a few pounds
- using proper technique when you work and exercise
- trading a sedentary lifestyle for an active one
If you have persistent back or neck pain, be sure to see a health professional for a diagnosis. And to learn more about conditions affecting the spine, read on!
