Humans are designed for movement, for which the spine is the central musculoskeletal element. From an evolutionary point of view, the spine has become more complex at different levels: anatomy, posture, physiological properties and cellular activities. The balance between its tissues, both musculoskeletal and skeletal, is essential for its correct functioning and to avoid pain.
Spine-related pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. This is due to the fact that the spine loses mobility over time. As we age, it becomes more difficult to perform tasks and carry out daily practices.
Difficulties related to the spine are the main chronic health problem in Spain, even ahead of other pathologies such as rheumatological diseases and arterial hypertension. Seventy percent of pain is found in the lumbar region, followed by the cervical region. Pain in the spine ranges from the skull to the sacrum. The health of the spine is a reflection of physical health, so it is important to take care of it.
The Health Survey for Asturias has shown that 31% of the population suffers from problems related to the spine, with the highest incidence found in women over 60 years of age. Between 70% and 80% of the population suffers or will at some time suffer back pain, making it one of the main reasons for neurosurgery and rehabilitation.
Technological advances must keep pace with people’s habits. It is useless to have the best techniques in rehabilitation and surgery if patients do not have good habits. The patient must be educated to have healthy habits for posture correction.
When reviewing health education resources, there are no educational materials for patients with spinal problems. With the existence of these educational materials, surgical interventions could be avoided. Therefore, a manual containing the knowledge of physicians readapted to patients should be created. “Perioperative Management of the Spine: Principles of Surgical and Rehabilitative Practice” is a manual that discusses different pathologies of the spine in which different professionals have summarized and synthesized the most relevant points that patients need to know. The contents are accompanied by images to make the content easier to understand.