The Spine
The Spine
The spine is a bio-mechanically complex organ system that allows for upright life. It consists of 24 mobile vertebrae (meaning they can move and are not joined) grouped according to region (7 cervical, 12 thoracic and 5 lumbar)—although some people have one more or less vertebra. There is also a group of fused vertebrae known as the sacrum that acts as the base of the spine. Each vertebrae is separated by an intervertebral disc which cushions it against the adjoining vertebra and allows for motion to occur. In the center of the spine is the spinal canal, a narrow tube that protects the spinal cord—the information super highway that transmits signals to and from your brain.
When problems occur in the spine, they can be some of the most disabling known to medicine. Treatment requires both systematic analysis of clinical and radiographic data (X-rays and MRIs), but also human intuition and connection with the patient.
Dr. Katsuura is an expert in non-operative and operative spine care. What can you do to protect your spine and keep it working for you as opposed to the other way around? When treatment is required, is there a way to limit risk and maximize outcomes? Dr. Katsuura asks himself these questions for all patients and enjoys teaching how the spine works .
Dr. Katsuura believes the decision to undergo surgery is yours, but will help guide you to make a safe and tailored choice in treatment.
-
Learn more about your neck and some of the common problems that affect it.
-
The thoracic spine (T1-12) is your upper back. Click here to learn more about it.
-
The low back or lumbar spine (L1-5) is a common place for problems to occur. Click here to learn more about the lumbar spine.
-
Graphics to Help Make Informed Decisions
-
Learn more about orthopedic spine procedures on our YouTube Channel
The Spine Encyclopedia: Is Here!
I am thrilled to present "The Spine Encyclopedia: Everything You Wanted to Know About Back and Neck Pain but Were Too Afraid to Ask," a book that I authored and illustrated. As a spine surgeon, I understand the importance of spinal health and wanted to create a comprehensive resource that would help others take control of their backs and necks. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the anatomy and physiology of the spine to common conditions and treatment options. I made sure to present the information in a way that is easy to understand and apply, with a lot of pictures, so that anyone can benefit from it. I am confident that "The Spine Encyclopedia" will be a valuable resource for medical professionals and individuals alike, and I hope that it will help people live healthier, pain-free lives. It is available as a paperback and EBOOK.
Contact Us to Learn More
Send us an email to schedule an appointment