MAY 2010 NEWSLETTER Sinus Self Care Archives Low Back Pain Anatomy Overview, Discs Bulging/Herniated, Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), Spondylosis, Sacroiliac Dysfunction, Sciatica and Treatment Strategies No one receives an instruction manual for their body when they are born. Too bad, because if we knew how to use our back when we began grade school we could eliminate the habits that lead to so much back trouble as adults. Anatomy Overview When our spine is upright, 3 normal curves are meant to be balanced. Ideally there is a small inward curve (lordosis) in our cervical spine; a medium sized outward curve (kyphosis) in the thoracic spine and a medium inward curve in the lumbar spine. (See ill. 1) These curves give our spine strength under compressive force similar to the coils of a spring, which absorbs forces better than a straight rod. The discs in between each bony vertebra are also shock absorbers. They are comprised of firm, dense concentrically layered cartilage with a soft center (nucleus pulposa) that acts as a hydraulic cushion. (See ill. 2, 3, 3.5) Garden-variety back pain begins with strain of the muscles and ligaments as a result of over-use or overstretching. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Movementwise makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2006