Causes
of Back Pain
Soft tissue injury - injury to the soft
tissues - the muscle, tendons, and ligaments - commonly referred
to as a sprain/strain type injury. Although typically not as serious
as other back injuries, this can cause significant pain and may take
considerable time to heal.
Degenerative disc disease - a decrease in the thickness of the
disc secondary to "wear and tear". It is more common as we get older.
Disc bulge - when the outer fibers of the disc weaken allowing
the disc to extend past its natural boundaries.
Disc herniation - when there is a break (tear) in the outer
fibers of the disc which allows the soft gelatinous material to extend
through this outer barrier. A disc bulge/herniation and/or arthritis
can limit the amount of space that the spinal cord and the nerve roots
occupy. Any inflammation in this area can further crowd the nerve tissue
causing nerve irritation and pain. Continued compression of the nerve
can result in nerve damage if not relieved. |
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Arthritis - inflammation (swelling) of a joint. The joint between
two vertebrae facet joints, like other joints in the body, can develop
arthritis which is painful and may limit the movement of the spine
or cause instability. Arthritis can also develop around the area of
the disc leading to similar problems.
More Patient Education Topics: Spine Animations | Definitions | Detailed Images | Web Links
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