Low back pain is a VERY common condition. Research shows that up to 50% of the adult population in the United States will experience low back pain in any three-month period over the course of a year. Worse, low back pain can persist for months, years, and even longer! This can significantly reduce one’s ability to work, play, and enjoy life. So, let’s take a look at where low back pain can come from…
ANATOMY
There are five lumbar vertebrae located just below the last rib and extending down to the sacrum. The FRONT of the vertebral column is made up of large box-shaped “vertebral bodies”. They are strong and made to bear heavy weight. Between the vertebral bodies are shock-absorbing “intervertebral disc”. These have a tough outer layer that surrounds a liquid-like center, giving it the ability to absorb vertical loaded pressure.
The spinal cord runs through the MIDDLE of the vertebra through the spinal canal. Nerves also exit the spine at each spinal level.
The BACK of the vertebra is made to protect the spinal cord. There are two gliding joints on the either side (called facet joints) of the vertebrae. Facets allow us to bend sideways, backwards, forward, or a combination of movements.
Below the lumbar spine sits the sacrum. The sacroiliac joint is the primary pain generator in up to 30% of lower back pain cases.
LBP CASE STUDIES
Each of the above structures can be potential causes of low back pain. Your symptoms and clinical signs can help your chiropractor figure out what’s going on. For example, when a patient states, “My back kills me and the pain shoots down my leg when I bend over. When I bend backwards it feels better and my leg pain disappears,” this is most often caused by a herniated disk pinching a nerve in the low back.
Pain that travels down into the leg is important to properly diagnosis. Too much pressure over time on a nerve can create long term consequences. Your chiropractor will ask you to walk on your toes and heels, check your reflexes, and test your ability to feel sensations on the skin. If any of these tests reveal loss of function, the first goal of care will be to remove the pinch on the nerve to restore leg feeling and strength.
When a patient feels better bending over but worse when bending backwards, the facet joints and/or the sacroiliac joint may be the culprit.
If you are in North Dallas Dr. Woodward can help you figure out what is causing your back pain and get you the relief you need.
