TAMPA, Fla. – Monday is World Spine Day, and the director of the Children’s Scoliosis Center at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa is using this opportunity to inform more people about spinal disorders and emphasize the need for early treatment.
Millions of people around the world suffer with spinal disorders, many of which often go undiagnosed or are not properly treated. Spinal disabilities or diseases can have a profound and debilitating effect on one’s overall health and lifestyle.
What is World Spine Day?
First started in 2012, World Spine Day serves as an important reminder about the risk of spine disorders and in coordination with people and organizations around the world, works to raise awareness about spine health. The theme of this year’s World Spine Day is “Your Back in Action”, which emphasizes the importance of healthy spinal posture and activity.
“World Spine Day is important because it provides an opportunity for people to learn more about the symptoms of spine disorders, treatment options and resources that are available,” said Siambanes, Director of the Children’s Scoliosis Center at St. Joseph’s Hospital. “This year’s theme is essential because it focuses on providing tips to prevent day-to-day wear on the spine, which can lead to a number of issues, like degenerative disc disease.”
Dr. Siambanes recommends the following tips to avoid back pain and problems:
- Maintain a healthy diet and bodyweight
- Remain physically active, in accordance your doctor’s recommendations
- Warm up or stretch before physical activity
- Lift with your arms, legs and knees when moving heavy objects, and carefully avoid lifting with or twisting the spine
- Avoid prolonged inactivity
- Maintain proper posture
- Invest in comfortable and supportive footwear
- Sleep on a mattress of medium firmness
Dr. David Siambanes, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and an expert in both operative and non-operative treatment of all forms of spinal deformities. In his current role at Children’s Scoliosis Center, Siambanes focuses on providing treatment for pediatric spinal deformities.
“With many forms of degenerative spine disorders, early diagnosis and proper treatment can dramatically enhance a patients chances for a full recovery. This especially true for scoliosis, which typically occurs in children and teens,” said Siambanes. “It is critical for parents and guardians to be mindful of their children’s posture and to schedule regular checkups with their family doctor. Spotting a disease like scoliosis early can save your child a lifetime of health issues.”
