What You Should Know About the Spinal Column

The spinal column is one of the most important parts of the human body. It is responsible for protecting the spinal cord, and it plays a vital role in movement and posture.

So, what is the primary function of the spinal column? The spinal column has several key functions. First and foremost, it protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a vital part of the nervous system, and it runs from the brainstem down to the lower back. If the spinal cord is damaged, it can lead to paralysis or even death.

In this blog post, we will discuss the primary function of the spinal column, what is the spinal cord, the purpose of the spinal column, spinal column injuries, how to take care of your spinal column, and what type of medical professional deals with the spinal column.

What is The Spinal Column?

The spinal column is made up of 33 vertebrae. These bones are stacked on top of each other and are separated by cushions called intervertebral discs. The spinal column also has two curvatures, the thoracic and sacral curvature.

Purpose of the Spinal Column

The primary function of the spinal column is to protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a vital part of the nervous system. It runs from the brainstem down to the lower back. If the spinal cord is damaged, it can lead to paralysis or even death.

The spinal column also plays a vital role in movement and posture. The muscles and ligaments attached to the spine allow us to move and maintain our posture.

Spinal Column Injuries

Unfortunately, the spinal column is susceptible to injury. A fall, car accident, or sporting injury can all lead to a spinal cord injury. Symptoms of a spinal cord injury include pain, numbness, tingling, paralysis, and loss of bowel or bladder control.

If you think you have a spinal cord injury, it is important to seek medical help immediately. A certified medical professional will be able to properly diagnose and treat your injury.

How to Take Care of Your Spinal Column

There are several things you can do to take care of your spinal column and prevent injuries.

Maintain Good Posture

First, it is important to maintain good posture. When sitting, stand tall with your shoulders back and down. When lifting something heavy, use proper form by bending at the knees, not the waist.

Exercise Regularly

Second, regular exercise is key to maintaining a healthy spine. Exercise helps increase flexibility and strengthens the muscles that support the spine.

Seek Professional Medical Care

Third, if you do experience an injury or pain in your back, it is important to seek medical help. A certified medical professional will be able to properly diagnose and treat your injury.

What Type of Medical Professional Deals with the Spinal Column?

If you think you have a spinal cord injury, it is important to seek medical help immediately. A certified medical professional will be able to properly diagnose and treat your injury. The type of medical professional who most often deals with the spinal column is called an orthopedic surgeon.

Orthopedic Surgeons

Orthopedic surgeons are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. If you have a problem with any of these structures, an orthopedic surgeon can help.

When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon

If you have a problem with your bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, or nerves, it is important to seek medical help. An orthopedic surgeon will be able to properly diagnose and treat your injury.

There are many different types of orthopedic surgeons. Some specialize in certain areas of the body while others focus on specific types of injuries or conditions. It is important to see a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who has experience treating your particular problem.

 

Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeons

All orthopedic surgeons complete four years of medical school and five years of residency training. During residency training, orthopedic surgeons learn how to diagnose and treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

After completing residency training, orthopedic surgeons must pass a rigorous examination to become board certified. Board-certified orthopedic surgeons have completed an accredited residency training program and have passed a comprehensive exam.

Choosing an Orthopedic Surgeon

When choosing an orthopedic surgeon, it is important to select someone who is board certified and has experience treating your particular problem. You should also feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your concerns with your surgeon.

Your orthopedic surgeon will be able to answer any questions you have about your condition or treatment options. He or she will also make sure you understand the risks and benefits of each treatment option.

Holistic Medicine Doctor

In certain cases, a holistic medicine doctor can help treat your spinal column. This type of doctor uses a variety of methods to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Holistic medicine doctors take a “whole person” approach that includes mind, body, and spirit. This type of doctor may use a variety of methods to treat your condition, including acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and nutritional counseling.

When to See a Holistic Medicine Doctor

If you are interested in exploring holistic treatment options for your spinal column, it is important to see a board-certified holistic medicine doctor. This type of doctor has completed an accredited residency training program and has passed a comprehensive exam.

Choosing a Holistic Medicine Doctor

When choosing a holistic medicine doctor, it is important to select someone who is board certified and has experience treating your particular problem. You should also feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your concerns with your doctor.

Your holistic medicine doctor will be able to answer any questions you have about your condition or treatment options. He or she will also make sure you understand the risks and benefits of each treatment option.

The decision about which treatment is best for you is a personal one. You should make sure you are comfortable with your surgeon and feel confident in his or her ability to treat your condition.

 

Preventing Spinal Column Injuries

There are a few things you can do to help prevent spinal column injuries:

• Wear seat belts when riding in a car
• Use proper lifting techniques
• Avoid risky activities
• Get regular exercise
• Maintain a healthy weight

These are just a few of the things you can do to help prevent spinal column injuries.

Common Symptoms of Spinal Column Injury

There are a few common symptoms of spinal column injuries:

• Back pain
• Numbness or tingling in the legs
• Weakness in the legs
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a medical professional as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing further damage to the spine.

Treatment for Spinal Column Injuries

The treatment for spinal column injuries will vary depending on the severity of the injury. Treatment options may include:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is best for you. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to see a variety of different specialists, including an orthopedic surgeon, a neurologist, and a physical therapist.

Recovery from Spinal Column Injury

The recovery process from a spinal column injury can be long and difficult. It is important to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all scheduled appointments. You may need to miss work or school for some time while you recover.

You will likely need to take it easy for the first few weeks after your injury. This means no heavy lifting, bending, or twisting. You may need to wear a brace or use crutches during this time.

As you heal, you will slowly start to increase your activity level. Your doctor will let you know when it is safe to start exercising and returning to your normal activities.

Final Thoughts

The spinal column is an essential part of the human body, providing support and protection for the spinal cord. When the spinal column is injured, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including back pain, numbness, and weakness.

Treatment for spinal column injuries will vary depending on the severity of the injury but may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, and surgery.

The recovery process from a spinal column injury can be long and difficult, but it is important to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all scheduled appointments. With proper treatment and care, you will make a full recovery.

Related Questions

Can a Chiropractor Treat the Spinal Column?

Yes, a chiropractor can help to treat the spinal column. Chiropractors are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

How Do Chiropractors Treat the Spinal Column?

Chiropractors use a variety of methods to treat the spine. These methods may include manual manipulation, massage, and exercises.

Can a Physical Therapist Treat the Spinal Column?

Yes, physical therapists are also trained in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

How Do Physical Therapists Treat the Spinal Column?

Physical therapists use a variety of methods to treat the spine. These methods may include exercises, stretching, and electrical stimulation.

– the article sponsor Dr. Washatka