Understanding your Spine
Your back is your body’s main support. Along with your muscles and joints it allows you to move and carry weight. Although, your back is also a delicate, finely balanced structure that can be easily injured if not cared for properly. Knowingly the basics of back care can make the difference between a healthy back and an aching one.
Your backbone (or spinal column) is composed of 24 moveable bones called vertebrae. Separating the vertebrae are cushion-like pads, called discs, that absorb shock. Ligaments and muscles support these vertebrae and discs and keep your back properly aligned in the three balance curves. When any of these various parts becomes diseased, injured or weakened, back problems and pain are almost certain to follow.
