Spinal health is extremely important to your overall health. At the most basic level, our spine consists of bones that help us stand tall. But inside the column of vertebrae runs the spinal cord, which is an electric living extension of your brain.
How the Spine and Nervous System Work Together
Your spine is made up of 33 different vertebrae. Vertebrae are discs that are neatly stacked on top of each other; ligaments and muscle hold the vertebrae in place and allow them to move. Inside the spine is your spinal cord, which is made up of nerves that connect your brain to the rest of your body. Together, your brain and spinal cord make up your central nervous system, the command center for every thought, movement, and feeling. The spinal cord can be thought of as a superhighway of information. Messages travel up and down constantly, telling your body what to do and processing sensory information.
The spinal cord carries two different signals
- Sensory signals (sensations such as pain and temperature) travel up to your brain.
- Motor signals (that tell your muscles to move) travel down from your brain.
This two-way connection allows you to move, breathe, and react throughout the day. Since your spinal cord is vital for basic movements, any injury can have a profound effect on the body.
Spinal Cord Injuries
There are many spinal cord injuries (SCI), many of which have neurological roots or effects.
1. Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
Spinal cord injuries are often caused by car accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Traumatic SCI happens when the spinal cord is bruised or severed. Depending on where it occurs, it can lead to paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia), loss of sensation, or changes in breathing and bladder control. Even partial injuries can affect balance, mobility, and independence. Ongoing rehabilitation and adaptive technologies are helping people regain function whenever possible.
2. Herniated or Bulging Disc
The soft discs between your vertebrae can rupture or slip out of place, pressing on nearby nerves, which is a herniated or bulging disc. This often causes shooting pain, tingling, or weakness, especially in the arms or legs. Early physical therapy, posture changes, and core strengthening can prevent long-term nerve damage.
3. Spinal Stenosis
Over time, as we age, the spinal canal can narrow, often from arthritis or bone overgrowth, which can squeeze the spinal cord and nerve roots, also known as spinal stenosis. Symptoms include numbness, cramping, and balance issues, especially when walking. It’s most common in older adults and can often be managed with therapy, injections, or surgery if symptoms are severe.
4. Transverse Myelitis
Transverse myelitis is an inflammatory condition that damages the spinal cord and is often linked to immune disorders or infections. It can cause sudden weakness, paralysis, or loss of bladder/bowel control. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting recovery through rehab.
5. Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the discs that cushion our spines naturally wear down and cause degenerative disc disease. For some people, this leads to chronic pain, stiffness, and nerve irritation. Movement, hydration, and good posture can help in preserving spinal health. The body sends signals early, such as numbness, burning, or sudden weakness. Listening to your body can make all the difference.
Caring for Your Neuro-Spine Connection
Spine care isn’t just about avoiding pain. It’s about protecting your body’s communication system. There are several things you can incorporate into your daily routine that can help improve and maintain your spinal cord health.
Exercise: gentle stretching, walking, or yoga keeps your spine flexible.
Strengthen your core: a strong core supports proper alignment.
Check your posture: especially when sitting or using screens.
Stay hydrated: your discs depend on fluid to cushion movement.
Sleep smart: with a supportive mattress and neck alignment and pat attention to your sleep posture.
Listen to your body: if you notice tingling, weakness, or numbness, don’t wait to get checked.
Looking Forward
Exoskeletons
Wearable robotic suits help people with paralysis stand, walk, or climb stairs. They’re being used in rehabilitation clinics and, increasingly, at home.
Smart Wheelchairs
Modern wheelchairs now use sensors, voice control, and eye-tracking to make mobility more accessible and fluid. Some can navigate obstacles automatically or adjust for terrain.
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI)
BCI technology allows the brain to communicate directly with computers or robotic limbs. For people with severe spinal cord injuries, this can mean regaining control of movement or assistive devices through thought alone.
Neurostimulators
Implanted devices send electrical signals to stimulate the spinal cord, which can help reduce chronic pain and, in some cases, restore partial movement and sensation.
