Protect the spinal cord, nerve roots and several of the body’s internal organs.
Does the spine protect anything?
The spine is also designed to protect your spinal cord. The spinal cord is a column of nerves that connects your brain with the rest of your body, allowing you to control your movements. Without a spinal cord, you could not move any part of your body, and your organs could not function.
What part of the spine controls the heart?
Thoracic (mid back) – the main function of the thoracic spine is to hold the rib cage and protect the heart and lungs. The twelve thoracic vertebrae are numbered T1 to T12.
What are the functions of a spine?
Your spine, or backbone, is your body’s central support structure. It connects different parts of your musculoskeletal system. Your spine helps you sit, stand, walk, twist and bend. Back injuries, spinal cord conditions and other problems can damage the spine and cause back pain.
What are the 5 areas of the spine?
The spine is composed of 33 bones, called vertebrae, divided into five sections: the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine sections, and the sacrum and coccyx bones. The cervical section of the spine is made up of the top seven vertebrae in the spine, C1 to C7, and is connected to the base of the skull.
How can I keep my spine healthy?
Essential Tips for a Happy and Healthy Spine
- Examine Your Exercise Regimen. A good exercise regimen helps maintain a healthy spine. …
- Proper Lifting. …
- Check Your Posture. …
- Treat Your Body to Massage Therapy. …
- Regular Walking Leads to a Healthy Spine. …
- Take to the Water. …
- Soothe Your Pain with Heat Therapy. …
- How to Sleep Right.
Which exercise is best for spine?
L’Italien recommends the “big three” exercises developed by Dr. Stuart McGill, an expert in spine biomechanics at the University of Waterloo in Canada. They are the curl-up, the side plank, and the bird-dog. “These exercises engage all the important muscles needed to improve spine stability,” says L’Italien.