~~From the desk of Ann Arbor Chiropractor Michael Tannenbaum, D.C.

As a Chiropractor at Tannenbaum Chiropractic in Ann Arbor the spinal column and the nerve system are a primary focus. I thought it would be good to list some important and maybe fun facts about the spinal column. Possibly my next blog will be related to facts about the nerve system

The spinal column contains more then 120 muscles

The spinal column contains more then 100 joints

Cartilage makes up at least a quarter of your spines length.

When you are born the spinal column is made up of 33 bones eventually this number decreases as the bones that make up the sacrum and coccyx fuse

In general people who don't work to strengthen the muscles of their spine will experience more back pain during their life time then those that work at strengthening the muscles of their spine

Sitting in a forward flexed posture puts up to 200 lbs of pressure on the lower aspect of the spine (the lumbar spine)

Generally, all mammals have the same number of vertebrae in their necks. For example, humans and giraffes have seven neck vertebrae.

Neck pain, upper back pain, mid back pain, low back pain, pelvis pain and pain radiating into the legs, arms, feet and hands are often related to misalignment of the spinal bones.

The spine column houses and protects the spinal cord.

The spinal column in conjunction with the nerve system has a huge impact on a persons health. It is imperative that one maintains the health of the spinal column as it is so important in directly and indirectly impacting one's overall health. It can be said that you can't get a spinal column replacement (like, for example, you can get a hip replacement) so take care of the spine you have. By the way a great way to maintain the health of your spine is having regular visits to a chiropractor.

If you have any questions about this blog post, chiropractic, back pain, neck pain or headaches I can reached at Ann Arbor office at [email protected]