The spine: injuries, pathologies and treatments

The spine is a central piece of our body. It is the protector of the bone marrow, the anchor of muscles and other bones and what allows us bipedal locomotion. Its multifunctionality makes it a key organ for human beings. Learn all about the pathologies that can affect the spine, the treatments and how to avoid injuring it in this post.

What is the spine and what is its function?

The Vertebral column consists of an articulated bony structure which begins at the base of the skull and extends to the pelvis. This system constitutes the primary bone marrow protection, is the base of the skeleton and supports us, allowing us to stand and walk upright.

In childhood, the spine is made up of 33 vertebrae that are distributed in the following 5 regions: cervical, dorsal, lumbar, sacro-axial and coccyx. During adulthood, the vertebrae of the sacrocoxial region and the coccyx, since they are not mobile, will join together and the spine will be made up of 26 vertebrae.

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Another of the characteristics of the spine is that your vertebrae are separated by something called intervertebral discs. These act as a ligament and cushioning of the vertebrae and in turn are what allow mobility.

Functions and parts of the spine

The 5 areas that make up the spine have different characteristics and functions. We will explain them starting with the region at the base of the skull and continuing with the regions that follow in order until we reach the base of the pelvis:

• Cervical: it is made up of 7 vertebrae and is the region that has the greatest articulation. Its high mobility is what allows the neck to be flexible and to make movements both to the sides, as well as forward and behind. Among its functions it also serves as support for the skull and protects part of the central nervous system.
• Dorsal: the 12 vertebrae that make up this region are larger than the previous ones, but have less mobility. Among the functions of the largest area of the spine we can mention: facilitating mobility and balance and acting as a point of attachment for bones, ligaments and muscles.
• Lumbar: composed of 5 vertebrae The lumbar region is one of the regions of the spine that suffers the most injuries.. This region is made up of vertebrae that are larger and more resistant than the previous ones. This is because it is the region that acts by absorbing the impacts generated by movement, absorbing tension to release the rest of the areas. It extends from the end of the ribs to the sacral region.
• Sacral: This region is made up of the sacral bone, a triangular-shaped bone made up of 5 fused vertebrae. The spine through this region connects to the pelvis.
• Coccyx: the 4 vertebrae of this region do not have any specific function, they are simply a vestige of what was previously a tail.

Main pain and pathologies of the spine

By acting as the main balance axis and shock absorber The spine can suffer different injuries and pathologies. Below we will detail some of the most common pathologies.

Cervical or lumbar disc herniation

This lesion is located in the intervertebral discs, causing compression of adjacent structures such as a nerve root or the spinal cord. Disc herniation occurs most frequently in the cervical and lumbar areas. Through good diagnosis and medical treatment, 80% herniated discs heal in about 3 months.

Osteoarthritis of the spine

The spondyloarthrosis, affects the vertebrae, cartilage and intervertebral discs by deteriorating. This degenerative disease brings about the loss of elasticity of these components of the spine and the wear of the cartilage. Consequently, the impact cushioning function is reduced, generating pain and limitation of movement.

Canal stenosis

Spinal canal stenosis occurs most frequently in the cervical and lumbar areas. This pathology consists of narrowing of the spinal canal inside the column where the spinal cord and root pass. As a result of this reduction of the channel, pressure is produced on both.

Some of the Symptoms of these spinal pathologies are: tingling in the extremities, pain in the legs, arms, neck, back or feet and loss of sensation in the nerve area. It is essential to go to a specialist traumatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Low back pain

Also known as lumbago, it is localized pain in the lumbar part of the back. It is a very common pathology in today's society, and its causes are very varied. For example, it may be due to spinal instability that occurs with scoliosis. Furthermore, it usually occurs in patients who suffer from degenerative diseases or due to severe trauma.

Cervicalgia

Cervicalgia is pain that affects the cervical vertebrae (neck area). Among its most common causes are cervical osteoarthritis, deterioration of the intervertebral disc, tumors or vertebral fractures. This pain can spread throughout the body, reaching the head or extremities.

Treatments to treat spinal injuries

Advanced spinal endoscopy

Advanced endoscopy consists of a minimally invasive spine surgery. With an incision of less than 3mm in the skin, the spinal canal will be explored through an optical camera. This innovative surgical technique is performed in Madrid by the trauma team from Clínica Elgeadi, allowing the treatment of pathologies such as canal stenosis and herniated disc.

Spine rehabilitation

After the advanced spinal endoscopy, when the patient has been discharged, the procedure can begin. rehabilitation and physiotherapy of the spine. The treatment will vary depending on the pathology treated and its extent.

How to prevent spinal pain and injuries?

For avoid spinal pain and injuries It is advisable to have a healthy lifestyle. Practicing exercise, maintaining a balanced weight and good posture are three great allies for having a healthy spine.

Some recommendations to avoid damage to the spine are to pay attention to not having poor posture at work, not to overload the body with weight and to be especially careful with excessive sports.

The spine is the axis and balancing organ of our body, a key piece that allows us to mobilize and protects part of our nervous system. Take care of it daily, do strengthening exercises and pay attention to your posture. If you have any questions, go to a professional, Elgeadi Clinic we have traumatologists specializing in spinal pathologies internationally recognized.