Understanding the Back & Spine

The spine, also known as the spinal column, is made up of a series of small bones (vertebrae) stacked on top of each other, running from the base of the skull to the pelvis. Between each vertebra are soft, gel-like cushions known as discs, which absorb shock while preventing the bones from rubbing against each other. The spinal column provides structure and support to the body, and offers protection to the spinal cord. The spinal cord contains nerves that send and receive messages between the brain and the body, allowing for healthy organ function and movement control. Injuries to the spine could result from accidental falls, and in severe cases, paralysis may occur if the trauma affect the spinal cord.

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is one of the most common conditions related to spine health. There are many reasons for lower back pain. One of the common causes is gradual injury to the lower back muscles due to poor posture, improper sleeping position, incorrect lifting techniques or chronic overuse. These injuries may affect the facet joint that links 2 vertebrae together in the spinal column, and the intervertebral discs that absorb shock between each vertebrae. Everyday activities may over time also lead to tiny injuries in these areas and hinder smooth movement and function. As a result, there is pain, movement limitations, and degeneration, which lead to general, non-specific lower back pain.

Signs and symptoms include pain in the back, referred pain or altered sensation in the feet, pain upon weight bearing, pain during coughing or sneezing, muscle spasms, and limited movement. Treatment varies depending on the clinical condition and severity of the injury. Speak to a doctor to understand the injury affecting your mobility and the treatment options available.

Spondylosis, also known as spinal osteoarthritis, is a degenerative condition of the joints of the spine, usually involving the discs, ligaments and joints. It results in the discs losing their cushioning effect between the vertebrae (spinal bones), and the ligaments thickening or weakening, which can lead to small stress fractures in the vertebrae that weaken the bones so much that one slips out of place. This is a condition known as spondylolisthesis. Repetitive stresses to the spine, wear and tear due to age, and injury, are the main causes to spondylosis. In severe cases, spondylosis may cause pressure on the nerve roots, leading to pain or a tingling sensation in the legs or arms.

Sciatica, also known as lumbar radiculopathy, is pain along the sciatic nerve, which extends from the back of the pelvis down the back of the thigh. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, and also the main nerve of the leg. It controls the muscles in the back of the lower leg and knee, while providing sensation to the back of the thigh, part of the lower leg, and the sole of the foot. Sciatica is usually caused by a herniated or ‘slipped’ disc in the spine that presses on a spinal nerve. Less common causes include a spinal injury or infection, growth within the spine (tumour), or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the nerve passages in spine).