Lower Back Anatomy

The causes of low back pain can be very complex, and there are many structures in the spine that can cause pain. Any of the following parts of spinal anatomy are typical sources of low back pain:

• The large nerve roots in the low back that go to the legs and arms may be irritated
• The smaller nerves that innervate the spine in the low back may be irritated
• The large paired lower back muscles (erector spinae) may be strained
• The bones, ligaments or joints may be damaged
• The intervertebral disc may be damaged

Sometimes there is a neurological component, such as leg or foot weakness or numbness, as well.

It is important to note that many types of low back pain actually have no known anatomical cause; but this doesn’t mean that the pain doesn’t exist. The patient’s pain generator may not be identifiable, but this does not necessarily signify that the pain is all psychosomatic. Actually, an estimated 90% of patients with pain will not have an identifiable cause of their pain.

This article provides a review of the most common types of low back pain and related symptoms. The vast majority of lower back pain conditions will get better with time and can be addressed with non-surgical treatments, such as osteopathic or chiropractic manipulation, physical therapy, pain medications, etc.

Prior to reviewing common causes of low back pain, it is important to note that there are a few symptoms that indicate the need for emergency surgery.

• Article written By:
• Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD

May 25, 2007

Print