Thursday, September 21, 2006

Cause of low back pain

The spine (spinal column) consists of the back bones (vertebrae), which are separated and cushioned by shock-absorbing disks made of cartilage. The vertebrae are also covered by a thin layer of cartilage. They are held in place by ligaments and muscles, which help stabilize the spine. These muscles include the two iliopsoas muscles which run along both sides of the spine and the two erector spinae muscles which run along the length of the spine behind it and the many short paraspinal muscles which run between the vertebrae. The abdominal muscles which run from the bottom of the rib cage to the pelvis also help stabilize the spine.

The lower lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae. It connects the chest to the pelvis and legs, providing mobility—for turning, twisting, and bending. It also provides strength—for standing, walking, and lifting. Thus, the lower back is involved in almost all activities of daily living such as lifting, bending, turning and swaying.

Low back pain has many causes,
One of the most common causes is muscle and ligament strains and sprains. Strains and sprains may result from lifting heavy object, exercising, or moving in an unexpected way.
The lower back is more likely to be injured when a person's physical conditioning is poor and the supporting muscles of the back are weak. Having poor posture, lifting improperly, being overweight, and being tired also contribute.
However, the number of back injuries in the workplace is decreasing, perhaps because awareness of the problem has increased and preventive measures have improved.

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