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Disc - ussion

The spine's 24 vertebrae are stacked on top of each other separated by cartliage and soft cushions called intervertebral discs. Discs are like jelly doughnuts- they're thick, fibrous rings filled with a softer gelatinous substance. With age, these discs dry and lose height and shock absorption. They can bulge or rupture and cause pressure on surrounding structures.

The vertebrae are supported by a complex arrangement of ligaments, muscles and tendons. An intricate network of nerves exit from the spinal column through gaps between the vertebrae, called foramen. They transport electrical messages controlling your body to and from the brain.

Back pain can result from a pinched nerve caused by deterioration of the discs between the vertebrae. A pinched nerve causes muscles to spasm and cramp. One of the primary goals of treatment is to get those muscles to relax. Only then can you begin to treat the cause of the spasm. Until the muscles relax, you may be unable to tie your shoelaces or brush your teeth, let alone continue your exercise program.

Other causes of back pain include osteoporosis and kidney disease. An evaluation by a physician is highly recommended if you are not sure why your back aches.

Preventing Back Pain

There are several keys to preventing low back pain. Most important is your day-to-day posture while sitting, standing and moving. It's essential to reduce excessive lordosis or slumping and to provide support for your lower back while sitting. And, though you might be doing adominal crunches daily, this won't have a significant positive effect on your spine unless you pratice good posture during your daily activity.

Supportive furniture that fits your body dimensions is important in the office, home and car. Your thighs should be completely supported and your feet should firmly touch the ground while the back of the chair fully supports your lower anti midback. Lumbar supports can help. Even a pillow or towel roll slipped behind your back as you drive, watch TV or work at your computer can make a tremendous difference.

What else can you do to create an environment that will help you maintain your day-to-day posture?

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Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
Nutrition
Exercise
Common Medical Problems
Dental Health
Emergency!
Infectious Disease
Sexual Health
Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Environmental Health
Prevention