Back Pain & Lumbar Spine
The lumbar, or lower area of the spine, is vulnerable to numerous acute and chronic conditions that can greatly restrict mobility. Understanding these conditions can help in managing and preventing pain effectively.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, spinal discs lose water content, causing shrinkage and reduced height, which can lead to pain and restricted movement. This condition, known as degenerative disc disease, progresses through three stages: dysfunction, instability, and restabilization, each with distinct symptoms. Improper lifting techniques and trauma can further damage the discs.
Discogenic Pain
Originating from one of the spinal discs, discogenic pain is a common cause of chronic lower back pain. These discs act as soft cushions allowing the spine to flex and twist.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc happens when the soft center of a damaged disc pushes through its outer wall, pressing against nerves in the spine. This condition can significantly impact flexibility and cause considerable pain.
Facet Arthropathy
Facet Arthropathy (FA) is a painful, arthritic condition that affects the facet joints of the spine, which are crucial for facilitating bending, twisting, and alignment. Often associated with chronic low back pain, FA is caused by problems with ligaments, compression of spinal cord roots and the dura, as well as muscle disorders in the lower spine and facet joints.
Osteoarthritis of the Spine
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disease impacting over 30 million people in the United States. It arises from the degeneration of hyaline cartilage in fluid-containing joints, affecting the entire joint complex, including the surrounding bone and synovial membrane. While the hands, hips, and knees are most commonly afflicted, any joint or bone, including the spine, can be affected.
Post-Laminectomy Syndrome
Even after a successful procedure, some patients may continue to experience pain following back surgery. This condition is known as failed back syndrome or failed back surgery syndrome. It indicates not a failure of the surgery itself, but rather the incomplete alleviation of symptoms.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a spinal condition marked by an exaggerated forward curvature, often referred to as a ‘humpback.’ This disorder can present as hyperkyphosis or ‘Gibbus Deformity,’ predominantly affecting the thoracic and thoracolumbar regions of the spine. It can result from poor posture or structural abnormalities within the spinal components.
Sacroiliitis
Sacroiliitis is a painful condition affecting the sacroiliac joints at the lower spine and pelvis. It causes pain and stiffness in the buttocks or lower back, sometimes extending to the legs. Prolonged standing, sitting, or climbing stairs can worsen the pain.
Scoliosis
Most spinal curvatures are harmless, but severe scoliosis can lead to organ complications and pain. Scoliosis causes the spine to curve sideways, making shoulders uneven and stressing other areas. The spine may appear ‘S’ or ‘C’ shaped and can also involve forward or backward rotation.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can result from various processes including the degeneration of intervertebral discs and facet joints. Bone spurs, or osteophytes, may grow towards the spinal canal, while the facet joints can enlarge due to arthritis.
Spondylosis
Spondylosis refers to a crack in the narrow bridge of bone at the back of a vertebra, frequently affecting the lumbar spine. It can occur at any age but is most commonly seen in children and teens due to their growing bones.
Lumbar Radiculopathy
This condition involves irritation or compression of nerve roots in the lumbar spine, leading to symptoms in the hips, buttocks, legs, and feet. Sciatica, a potential result of lumbar radiculopathy, arises from various issues with the lumbar spinal column’s bones and tissues.
