Spinal Anatomy: Why Back Pain Occurs?

Jul 11, 2019

Welcome to Pharmhouse Wellness, the leading provider of alternative and natural medicine in Moore, OK. If you're experiencing back pain, you've come to the right place. Our team of highly skilled therapists specializes in providing effective massage therapy that targets the root cause of your back pain. In this article, we will explore spinal anatomy and delve into the reasons why back pain occurs.

An Overview of Spinal Anatomy

The spine is a complex structure composed of vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments, and nerves. It serves as the main support for your body and protects your spinal cord - the highway for transmitting signals between your brain and the rest of your body. Understanding the components of your spine is crucial in identifying the underlying causes of back pain.

The Vertebrae and Intervertebral Discs

The spine is made up of 33 vertebrae, divided into five regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), lumbar (lower back), sacrum, and coccyx. The vertebrae are stacked on top of one another and connected by intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers between each vertebra.

Cervical Vertebrae (Neck)

The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae. It provides support for your head and allows for its range of motion. Poor posture, stress, and excessive use of electronic devices can contribute to neck pain and discomfort.

Thoracic Vertebrae (Upper Back)

The thoracic spine contains twelve vertebrae and provides stability for the ribcage and protection for the vital organs. Poor posture, repetitive motions, and muscle imbalances can lead to upper back pain and restricted mobility.

Lumbar Vertebrae (Lower Back)

The lumbar spine is comprised of five vertebrae and bears the weight of the upper body. It is a common area for back pain due to its heavy workload. Muscle strains, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis are some of the common causes of lower back pain.

The Sacrum and Coccyx (Tailbone)

The sacrum is a triangular-shaped bone formed by the fusion of five vertebrae. It connects the spine to the pelvic bones and provides support for the hips. The coccyx, also known as the tailbone, is a small bone located at the bottom of the spine. Injuries or falls can cause coccyx pain or discomfort.

Muscles and Ligaments

The spine is surrounded by various muscles and ligaments that provide stability and facilitate movement. The muscles of the back, including the erector spinae, multifidus, and latissimus dorsi, help with posture and movement. Ligaments, such as the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, support the spine and prevent excessive movement.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Now that we have familiarized ourselves with spinal anatomy, let's explore the common causes of back pain:

  1. Poor Posture: Maintaining poor posture for extended periods can strain the muscles and ligaments, leading to discomfort and pain.
  2. Muscle Strains: Overusing or straining the back muscles through heavy lifting, sudden movements, or repetitive actions can result in muscle strains.
  3. Herniated Discs: When the soft jelly-like center of a disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer, it can press on nearby nerves, causing pain.
  4. Spinal Stenosis: The narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, and possible weakness in the legs.
  5. Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve can cause shooting pain, tingling, and numbness that radiates from the lower back down to the legs.

Our Approach to Relieving Back Pain

At Pharmhouse Wellness, we understand the debilitating effects of back pain on your daily life. Our highly skilled therapists specialize in various massage techniques that specifically target back pain. Depending on your condition, we may recommend deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, or trigger point therapy. These techniques not only provide pain relief but also improve blood circulation, release tension, and promote overall relaxation.

Customized Treatment Plans

We believe that every individual is unique, and so is their back pain. That's why we take a personalized approach to develop treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Our therapists will assess your condition, listen to your concerns, and work with you to devise a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your back pain.

Experienced Therapists

Our therapists are highly trained and experienced in providing effective back pain relief. They have a deep understanding of spinal anatomy and possess the expertise to identify the underlying causes of your pain. With their skilled hands and knowledge, they can target problem areas and alleviate your discomfort.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Pharmhouse Wellness embraces excellence, not only in our services but also in our facilities. Our state-of-the-art spa provides a calm and relaxing environment, designed to promote healing and rejuvenation. You'll be able to unwind and receive treatment in a soothing atmosphere, ensuring a truly exceptional experience.

Book Your Back Pain Relief Massage Today

If you're tired of living with back pain, don't wait any longer. Book your massage session with Pharmhouse Wellness today and experience the difference our expert therapists can make. We offer convenient appointment times to fit your schedule and ensure you receive the care you deserve. Say goodbye to back pain and hello to a pain-free, healthier you!