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INTEGRIS Health highlights the importance of spinal health this October during Spine Health Awareness Month.

Prioritizing spine health is essential due to its central support in mobility, strength and balance. This complex structure, consisting of 33 individual bones—24 mobile and 9 fixed—enables the body to perform everyday activities, from lifting groceries to sitting at a desk. Additionally, the spine protects the nerves in the neck and back from injuries.

According to the National Spine Health Foundation, nearly 100 million Americans suffer from chronic neck or back pain each year. Exploring preventive measures such as regular exercise, proper lifting techniques and practicing good posture helps maintain spine health, especially as aging occurs.

“The spine is an extraordinary structure in the body that allows for a wide range of movement,” said Niranjan Kavadi, M.D., FAAOS, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Orthopedics Spine Surgery. “Keeping up with spine health should be part of your everyday routine, whether it’s stretching, low-intensity exercises or strengthening the core.”

“Like any machine, the spine has several moving parts, which require care and maintenance not only when it has an issue but on an ongoing basis,” said Kavadi. “It’s critical to understand the importance of maintaining consistency in performing spine-focused exercises, so individuals reduce the risk of developing chronic pain or spine-related conditions.” 

Surgical and nonsurgical methods may be recommended to treat spine pain and help restore its functions. INTEGRIS Health Orthopedics educates its patients on personalized treatment plans to alleviate pain and improve quality of life.

To learn more about INTEGRIS Health Orthopedics or to schedule an appointment with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Orthopedics Spine Surgery, call 405-727-3015.