Your spine is one of the most important structures in your body, supporting your weight, helping you move, and protecting the spinal cord. But how much do you actually know about your spine? Here are five interesting facts that may give you a new appreciation for your back and overall spine health.
1. You are born with 33 vertebrae.
The human spine is made up of 33 vertebrae, although some of the vertebrae eventually fuse together as we develop. These include seven cervical vertebrae in the neck, 12 thoracic vertebrae in the midback, five lumbar vertebrae in the lower back, and fused vertebrae that make up the sacrum and coccyx.
2. Car accidents are a major cause of spinal cord injuries.
Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic spinal cord injuries. Data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development reports that car crashes account for about 40% of spinal cord injuries among people younger than 65.
3. Back pain is extremely common.
Back pain can affect people of all ages and can make everyday activities such as sitting, standing, walking, exercising, and working more difficult. If you are experiencing persistent or worsening back pain, it is important to have your symptoms evaluated to determine what may be causing them.
4. Smoking can affect your spine.
Smoking does more than affect your lungs—it can also negatively affect your spine. Research has found that smoking can interfere with blood supply and bone healing, and smokers have a higher risk of complications following spinal fusion surgery.
5. Humans and giraffes have the same number of neck vertebrae.
Here’s a fun one: despite the huge difference in the length of our necks, humans and giraffes both have seven cervical vertebrae. The difference is that giraffes have extremely elongated cervical vertebrae, allowing them to have their famously long necks.
Your spine does a lot for you every day, so taking care of it is important. Whether you are dealing with back pain, a spinal injury, or another condition affecting your spine, Axis Spine & Orthopedics is here to help. If pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, contact our team today and let us help you get BACK to It.
Sources: https://southfloridabackspineandscoliosis.com/13-surprising-facts-you-didnt-know-about-your-spine/
