The spine is an amazing collection of bones, nerves, ligaments and tendons, all nourished by a rich blood supply. Its jobs include helping us to maintain an upright posture and transporting neurological messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When it is working right, we hardly even know it is there. When something goes wrong, however, we find out just how much we rely on it, day in and day out.

Understanding some of the numerous things that can go wrong with the spine may allow us to take steps now to avoid problems in the future and how to live with those problems we couldn't avoid. Let's look at a few of those potential problems.

Understanding Improper Function of the Spine

Spinal Fractures - There are many different types of spinal fractures, some insignificant, some deadly. While fractures can happen in healthy bone, secondary to trauma, there are also disease processes and conditions which can lead to pathological fractures, or fractures secondary to some other disease process or condition.

Sometimes, spinal fractures are found by accident, while looking at another anatomical structure. Often, these will not need treatment and will heal on their own. If, however, the structural integrity of the vertebra is compromised, surgical or other treatment may be recommended.

Intervertebral Disk Problems - Between each of your 24 or so (it can vary) vertebrae lies a thick, gel-filled, cartilaginous cushion. These cushions help your spine to be incredibly flexible and maintain the spaces between your vertebrae which allows nerve roots to exit the spinal cord and communicate with the body. If you've had sciatica or some other pinched nerve problem, it is most likely because the space between the vertebrae is too small for that nerve root to comfortably pass. With age, trauma or overuse, these disks can shrink or become damaged, leading to pain and loss of function. These problems can be treated with many modalities, including chiropractic and other conservative care. Severe problems, intractable to treatment, may require surgical intervention.

To find out more about your amazing spine and how to make it work even better for you, please contact us here at Lexington Chiropractic.

Remember, you don't have to live with the pain!