Spine-related problems and pain

To understand spine-related problems, let’s divide the spine into three main sections – the cervical (neck), the thoracic (upper back) and the lumbar (lower back) regions.

Cervical Spine

The cervical spine is mainly the neck region and consists of 7 bones, separated from one another by cartilaginous, intervertebral discs which act as shock absorbers.

With age, wear and tear, overuse and injuries, the intervertebral discs wear out and may begin to break down or degenerate. This condition is referred to as cervical degenerative disc disease. Many people under 40 and a large number of those over 40 have some degree of degenerative disc disease.

The most common signs of cervical degenerative disc disease are chronic neck pain and a persistently stiff neck. Prolonged working, hunched over a screen, is one of the most common causes of cervical degenerative disc disease.

Cervical Spine

The part of the spine that runs from the base of the neck down to the abdomen is known as the thoracic spine. The thoracic spine protects the spinal cord in this part of the spine and anchors the ribs. This part of the spine consists of 12 vertebrae with intervertebral discs between them.

Two common issues that affect the thoracic spine are muscular problems and joint problems. Muscular problems usually affect the upper back and shoulder muscles while joint dysfunction occurs when cartilage tears and joints begin to degenerate.

The most common signs that you need to see a doctor for your thoracic spine issues are – stiffness, limited range of motion, muscle spasms, nerve pain, muscle weakness, and the tendency to stoop down.

Cervical Spine

The lumbar spine refers to the lower back, where the spine curves inwards toward the abdomen. The lower or lumbar spine is designed for heavy duty jobs that require power and flexibility, such as lifting, twisting, and bending. The lumbar spine also provides protection from jarring movements.

Despite being built for power and flexibility, the lumbar spine may be impacted by muscular problems, degenerating discs, and bulging and herniated discs. Out of all these, lumbar disc herniation is the most common issue which may be caused due to injury or heavy lifting.

Back pain that radiates into one leg (sciatica) is the most common symptom of a herniated lumbar disc. This is caused due to the sciatic nerve being pinched due to the contents of an intervertebral disc herniating out of the disc.

If you suspect you or a loved one is suffering from one of the above-mentioned problems due to work-related injury or condition, it’s important to consult a workers’ compensation doctor diagnose and treat you.

If you have suffered a workers’ compensation or personal injury, consult the best accident and injury chiropractic in Phoenix, AZ, at Arizona Injury Medical Associates at 480-347-0941 right away.

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arizonaima Joined: June 24th, 2018