What Is Spine Care?
The spine, or vertebral column, plays a critical role in many body systems.
Nerves leave the brain and travel throughout the body like the branches of a tree. Just as an issue with a tree's trunk can affect its branches, so too can the condition of the spine impact every major system of the body.
Other systems that may be affected by the spine include:
- Central nervous system — Using the tree example, the spinal cord is the trunk from which all nerve branches begin. It transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body, affecting movement, reflexes, and sensation.
- Circulatory system — The spine has major blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the spinal cord and surrounding tissues. It also serves as the conduit for nerves that control the lungs and heart.
- Digestive system — Spinal health can influence digestion and bowel control because the nerves of the gastrointestinal system come directly from the spinal cord. These nerves impact the functions of the digestive organs. Additionally, the vagus nerve runs the entire length of the body and is instrumental in our "fight or flight" response.
- Musculoskeletal system — Using a computer reference, the spinal column is the motherboard of the body’s musculoskeletal system; most muscles and muscle groups are controlled by nerves that branch off from the spinal cord. These same nerves carry signals to the brain, including signals of pain, injury, or injury to these nerves themselves.
- Respiratory system — Branches from the thoracic spine (upper back) support heart and lung function and enervate the diaphragm, controlling breathing.
- Urinary system — Like the digestive system, the nerves that control the bladder and kidneys are direct branches of the spinal cord. Spinal injuries can affect urinary function.
Truly, the spine is a central hub that affects and supports many other critical systems in your body.
How Can UPMC Back and Spine Care Help Me?
UPMC offers a multidisciplinary approach to spine care. Our team includes highly skilled experts from different fields. Our nonsurgical and surgical specialists treat back and spine pain with different approaches, so your spine issue will be reviewed from each perspective to find the best approach for your condition.
Areas of Care
