Spine

The spine, or spinal column, consists of 24 vertebrae and is divided into three sections: the cervical spine (neck), the thoracic spine (trunk) and the lumbar spine (lower back). Between each vertebra is a fibrocartilage disc that acts as a shock absorber. The vertebrae are connected to each other by facet joints. The spinal column also houses the spinal cord, from which all major nerves in the body originate. A problem with any aspect of the spine can cause problems elsewhere in the back and throughout the body.

Back pain—especially lower back pain—causes more disability worldwide than any other condition. It is one of the most common sources of chronic pain in the United States, with an estimated 8 out of 10 people reporting some back pain during their lifetime. It’s also one of the most costly, representing a large portion of the $14.2 billion in medical costs caused by work-related overexertion, according to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.

Our orthopedics department has spine specialists on staff to take care of every vertebra, every disc, every nerve and every facet joint. We offer both surgical and nonsurgical interventions to heal the spine and its parts. Whether you have back pain from illness, injury or degeneration, our spine specialists will help you get back to feeling your best.

If you’re one of the millions of Americans living with back pain, don’t wait—call us today to find out how our spine specialists can help you.