The spinal column provides the main support for your body, allowing you to stand upright, bend, and twist. Protected deep inside the bones, the spinal cord connects your body to the brain, allowing movement of your arms and legs.
The spine is made of 33 individual bones called vertebrae stacked one on top of the other. Ligaments and muscles connect the bones together and keep them aligned. When viewed from the side, an adult spine has a natural S-shaped curve. The curves work like a coiled spring to absorb shock, maintain balance, and allow range of motion throughout the spinal column.
Keeping your spine healthy is vital if you want to live an active life without back pain. Developing the habits of exercising, sustaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and proper posture are all good behaviors to incorporate into our daily lives for increasing our spine health.