Back pain is a problem most people will encounter at some point in their lives. If you are looking for lower back pain treatment in Corpus Christi, here’s some information that will help.
The spine is one of the most important structures in your body. It provides support and stability for your torso and head, and allows you to bend and twist your upper body. But in addition to its many important functions, the spine can also cause some problems when pain arises in the region. Up to 80% of the population will experience at least one episode of back pain in their lives, and about 50% will deal with it at some point every year.
Understanding The Anatomy Of The Spine
To understand the many conditions that can result in back pain, it helps to first develop a clearer picture of the anatomy of the spine. The spinal column, or backbone, consists of small bones called vertebrae, which are connected by ligaments, muscles, tendons, and joints. These vertebrae divide the spine into three segments:
- Cervical spine: the first seven vertebrae of the neck
- Thoracic spine: 12 vertebrae in the upper and mid-back, extending from the bottom of the neck to about five inches below the shoulder blades
- Lumbar spine: five vertebrae in the lower back down to the pelvis
Each pair of vertebrae is connected by two facet joints, which help stabilize the entire spine and allow it to move. Between each vertebra is an intervertebral disc, a jelly-like substance contained within a fibrous sheath. Together, the vertebrae and discs allow considerable flexibility of the spine without reducing its stability.
Common Issues That Affect The Spine
One of the most frequent causes of back pain is a simple back strain, in which muscles in the back are pushed beyond their limits, usually from twisting, bending, or lifting movements. Other common causes of back pain include:
- Herniated disc: the jelly-like substance in an intervertebral disc pushes out through a tear in the outer layer
- Spinal stenosis: a narrowing of the spaces within the spine that usually occurs later in life
- Degenerative disc disease: the intervertebral discs start to thin and wear away with age
- Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis: a crack or stress fracture in a vertebra
Regardless of the cause, back pain can lead to difficulty performing daily activities, especially those that require bending, as well as trouble exercising or playing sports. If nothing is done to address it, back pain can get bad enough to prevent someone from performing their job. This is why it’s crucial to seek out treatment for any episode of back pain that does not go away on its own within a few days.
Request an appointment to get started on the recovery process, or give us a call at (361) 500-6686.