Importance of the Human Spine

Last updated December 1, 2024

Having good posture is integral for optimum health and performance. Conversely, having poor posture is detrimental for every system of the human body.

The human body has had three distinct evolutionary developments though the processes of evolution. We share common ancestry with other vertebrates and this helps to provide clues about how the human spine evolved. The human spine consists of three distinct regions, each curving in a different direction. These sections are the cervical spine, thoracic spine and the lumbar spine. The thoracic is the center of the spine that bows away from the body, the lumber spine is found towards the bottom, and the cervical spine is at the top, connecting to the skull.

The thoracic spine is the oldest, in terms of evolutionary history, and is found in common with most invertebrates, and most mammals that walk on four legs, imagine a cat stretching it's back. The cervical spine that connects to the head is also very old in terms of evolution, this section of the spine developed as vertebrates began using their head with more sophistication, as in lifting it up to look at the trees.

The lumbar section of the spine developed as our primate ancestors began to walk on two feet, it curves in the opposite direction from the thoracic section to counterbalance the weight of the body. This section is newest section in terms of evolutionary history. This may be part of the reason why the lumbar spine causes people the most pain and problems.

Taking care of your spine involves three components: maintaining good posture, stretching regularly, and strengthening the muscles in your back.

Maintaining good posture is not only good for your back and spine. Maintaining good posture is important for many systems in your body. Poor posture is bad for your internal organs, by compressing structures. Your lungs, stomach, liver and heart all benefit from proper posture. These organs need to have optimal function for your body to be in optimal health.

Stretching the spine is crucial. Warm up your body by moving your arms and legs. Cat/cow stretch is the best stretch for the spine. Kneel on your hands and knees, start by looking down at your thighs and raise your back to the sky. Breath out completely while doing this motion. Next, look up to the sky and drop your back as low as possible. Breathe in completely and expand your rib cage during this motion. Do this sequence ten times.

A great way to begin to strengthening your back muscles is to do this simple exercise: Begin by laying flat on your stomach. Outstretch your arms as if flying like superman. The inside of your elbows should be lightly touching your ears. Position your legs so that your feet are about twelve inches apart. Now raise your right arm and left leg simultaneously. Only raise your hand and toe about two inches from the ground. Hold this position for 5 seconds and slowly drop to the ground. Now do this again with your left arm and right leg, hold for five seconds. To this ten times in a row and to this exercise 2 times everyday.

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