The spine is made up of small "stacked" bones called the vertebrae. These bones are arranged in three natural curves that are necessary to keep your body supported. Strong, flexible muscles help maintain these curves.

In a healthy spine the three curves are:

There are cushions that are called discs between each of the bones of the spine. These cushions or discs act as shock absorbers. Nerves exit between the vertebrae and branch out to your body. It is likely that, as people age, built-up stress and pressures begin to wear out parts of the spine.

Lumbar stenosis is a narrowing of the space the spinal cord and nerves run through, in the lower part of the spine. The bone of the lumbar spine surrounds this space. The narrowing can be present at birth and worsen with age. More often, the narrowing is caused by arthritis, which comes on as people age. The nerves can be pinched as they are caught between the bones, when the space they travel out of gets too narrow. This will lead to pain, weakness, and loss of sensation in the back, buttocks or legs.

It is important to know the cause of any back pain. Your doctor will help you determine what is wrong and assist you in your recovery.

Prevention is the key to spinal health. Exercise, and good posture can postpone arthritis. Learning correct lifting techniques can prevent injuries. Protecting the back is important to staying active.

Article #7623

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