Lower Back Problems Treatable with Physical Therapy

 

Degenerative Disc Disease – Degenerative disc disease is one of the most common causes of low back pain. The pain associated with it is thought to stem from two different factors. The first is an inflammation of proteins in the lumbar disc. The second, referred to as micromotion instability, occurs when the outer rings of the disc become damaged or worn down. This causes the disc to become less effective at resisting motion in the spine.

 

Herniated Disc – When a disc has suffered damage, there is a possibility that it may bulge or break. This is known as a herniated disc. A herniated disc can occur at any point on the spine, but is most common in the lower back. Back injury is not the only cause of herniated discs. As you age, your discs dry out and are therefore not as flexible. Wear and tear to an aging disc can also bring about herniation.

 

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis – As nerves leave the spinal cord, they travel through the spinal canal. They exit this canal through small openings known as foramen. It is possible for the spinal canal or these openings to become narrower. If the narrowing is substantial, it will cause compression of the nerves, which can be very painful. The most common cause of lumbar spinal stenosis is degenerative arthritis, but it can also be brought on by conditions such as a tumor, infection, or bone disorder.