The spine acts as a shield that protects the nervous system, lungs, and heart. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for spinal health and advise engaging in regular physical activity. Maintaining proper posture and drinking plenty of water are also beneficial for spinal health.
Dr. Abdullah Şarlak, a specialist in orthopedics and traumatology at Üsküdar University NPİSTANBUL Hospital, shared important information about spinal health.
The Spine Protects the Heart and Lungs
“Our spine is a support system consisting of 33 bones. These bones are connected to one another by joints, connective tissue, and cushions called discs,” said Abdullah Şarlak. “The spine is supported by very strong muscle groups. With this system, which supports our head, we stand upright and bend forward, backward, and to the sides. It protects our heart and lungs along with the rib cage. It also houses and protects the nervous system that controls our torso, arms, and legs,” he said.
Dr. Abdullah Şarlak provided the following information about spinal disorders:
Scoliosis is typically diagnosed during adolescence
“It is a lateral (right or left) curvature of the spine. It can also rotate around its own axis. It is typically diagnosed during adolescence, particularly during periods of rapid growth. Asymmetry in the shoulders, lower back, and shoulder blades is noticeable. The rib cage may appear to be shifted. It is caused by a genetic predisposition. It can be treated if diagnosed early.
Kyphosis Poses a Life-Threatening Risk in Children
It is a deformity that forms in the forward-curving region of the back. It can occur during adolescence and in older age. The type that appears in children may carry life-threatening risks. It is caused by a genetic predisposition. With early diagnosis, it can be treated before leading to further health problems. It can be confused with postural abnormalities commonly seen in adolescent girls. This condition can be corrected with exercises that strengthen the muscles.
A herniated disc can cause significant damage
It results from the degeneration of the discs that act as cushions between the vertebrae. Patients experience lower back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs. It can cause damage severe enough to require surgery.”
A back brace offers no benefit to spinal health
Stating that a back brace offers no benefits for spinal health, Specialist Dr. Abdullah Şarlak listed the following steps to maintain spinal health:
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“We should drink plenty of water.
• We should engage in regular physical activity (5 days a week; 45 minutes a day)
• We should lose excess weight. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle exacerbate these problems.
• We should maintain proper posture. This ensures an aesthetically pleasing appearance without pain.
• To build strong muscles, we first need to strengthen our muscles. We can achieve this through walking, running, and swimming.
• A healthy diet, particularly one rich in fish and vegetables, is recommended.”
