KKT Orthopedic Spine Center and Back Pain

The spine is comprise of a column of 24 bones called vertebrae. Together they create a bony canal that surrounds and protects the spinal cord. Small nerves enter and exit the spinal cord through spaces in the vertebrae. These nerves transmit messages between your brain and the rest of your body. Pain is often generated when the nerves are irritated or compressed. Nerve irritation in many instances occurs due to disc damage. This is commonly referred to as herniated, protruding or slipped disc.

Another possible source of back pain is the facet joints of the spine. These joints allow for smooth spinal motion when they are properly aligned. If their position is compromised, symptoms occur which manifest as pain. It has been shown that chronic back pain sufferers learn to compensate for their spinal abnormality by engaging muscles not normally utilized in the specific activity. If the spine is not restored to its optimal position, daily activities can accelerate spinal degeneration leading to pronounced wear and tear.

It has been shown that chronic back pain sufferers learn to compensate for their spinal abnormality by engaging muscles not normally utilized in the specific activity. If the spine is not restored to its optimal position, daily activities can accelerate spinal degeneration leading to pronounced wear and tear.

Back Pain Symptoms and Signs of Potential Concern

• Burning or stabbing pain in the back
• Dull ache or pressure which may be aggravated by movement or coughing
• Difficulty sitting in one position for long periods
• Pain radiating down one or both legs; numbness; tingling
• Burning, or a pins and needles type sensation in the legs, muscle spasms
• Pain on standing from a seated position

Risk Factors –
You are at particular risk for low back pain if you:

• Engage in repetitive activities
• Have experienced a sudden jolt to your spine, neck or head
• Work in a job requiring heavy lifting, bending and twisting of the whole body, particularly if you have not been previously trained for the activity
• Have poor posture
• You are pregnant
• Are over the age of 30
• Smoking, don’t exercise or you are over weight