Common Characteristics of Back Pain
Back pain, which afflicts four out of five Americans at one time or another, is second only to headache as
a common disorder characterized by pain. Pain in the upper spine may accompany an injury; however, for the
overwhelming majority, the pain originates in the lower back, or lumbar region.
Recent studies indicate that fewer than 15 percent of cases of lower back pain are traceable to structural
defects, such as ruptured disks, arthritis or tumors. In most cases, the disability arises from weakness of
the musculature surrounding the spine. Therefore, the most important aspect of treatment for muscle-based
back pain involves strengthening and protecting these supporting muscles. With a doctor's guidance, well-informed
and motivated patients can carry out most of the treatment themselves.
How the Pain Originates
The spinal column is made up of 24 separate and nine fused vertebrae, held together with tough bands of tissue
called ligaments. Nerve roots pass through openings at the side of each vertebra. Thus, a wrench of the back
or a failure of muscular support may result in the painful "pinching" of a nerve. The sciatic nerve--which
extends from the lumbar area into the buttock, leg and toes--is particularly vulnerable to pressure. (The condition
known as sciatica is a frequent companion to lower back pain, usually associated with a ruptured disk.)
Pain also is generated when muscles go into spasm. While such spasms may occur as a protective reflex, they
intensify discomfort by choking off circulation and setting up an inflammatory response. Stress of any kind--physical
or psychological--may cause spasms in under-exercised muscles.
Basic Causes
Recurrent back pain--leading to the deterioration of the muscles supporting the spine--usually can be traced to
a specific condition. These include--singly or in combination--a sedentary life style, obesity, poor posture and
a general lack of muscular tone. The type of exercise taken by usually sedentary people often fails to strengthen
muscles supporting the lower back. Indeed, such popular weekend sports ans tennis, golf and skiing may actually
promote back problems.
