Roohealtcare.com – Lower Lumbar is a part of the spine located at the back of the body. It contains the nerves that control the trunk and lower extremities. These nerves are responsible for controlling the trunk’s motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. In addition, there are many joints and muscles that attach to the spine in this region.
The Lumbar Region Vertebrae are the Largest in the Spine
The lumbar spine is made up of five bones – L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5. The vertebrae of the lumbar region are the largest in the spine, and they sit between the thoracic and sacrum areas. Generally, lower back pain is caused by degenerative discs in this area. The vertebrae also contain a ligament called the anterior longitudinal ligament, which extends down the front of the lumbar vertebrae and maintains stability and limits back bending of the lumbar spine.
Unlike cervical and thoracic discs, lumbar discs do not have a direct blood supply, relying instead on primitive diffusion for nutrition. This poor blood supply is a contributing factor to the onset of many forms of chronic low back pain. In addition, the lumbar disc has three major anatomical regions – the gelatinous nucleus pulposus, the fibrous annulus, and the cartilaginous vertebral endplates.
The main symptom of a lumbar strain is local pain in the lower back. The pain may range from mild to severe. The severity of the pain depends on the amount of strain and the spasm in the low back muscles. A physician can diagnose a lumbar strain by examining the pain and history of the injury. In addition, X-ray testing may be necessary to rule out other serious spinal conditions.
Consists of Five Lumbar and Sacrum Vertebrae
The lower lumbar vertebra consists of five lumbar vertebrae and a sacrum. The lumbar vertebrae are connected to each other by a pair of laminae and pedicles. The sacrum is connected to the vertebral body through the anterior longitudinal ligament. The lumbar spine is responsible for supporting the seven processes of the back.
Lower lumbar pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including degenerative arthritis. A doctor will perform an X-ray to determine the curvature of the spine and prescribe a treatment plan. This treatment typically involves pain relief, exercise, and periodic rest. Some cases can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications.
Researchers have studied the innervation of the lumbar spine and found that the L4 and L5 nerves are responsible for low back pain. Their study found that these nerves carry pain signals to the brain and spinal cord. However, it did not find evidence that L2 dorsal root ganglions are involved in low back pain.
Spine Surgery is the Best Choice for Herniated Disc Cases
In cases of a herniated disc, spinal surgery may be a good option. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and involves an incision in the lower back. Sometimes, bone from the back of the spine is removed in order to get access to the nerve root. The surgeon then removes the herniated portion of the disc and any loose pieces. After surgery, patients are usually required to rest for several weeks to reduce the risk of another disc herniation.
Physical therapy is also an excellent option for people with lumbar spinal cord injuries. This treatment helps to increase strength and function in the affected area and maintain the function of unaffected areas. In many cases, patients who undergo this type of therapy are able to regain some function despite their injury. Physical therapy, along with occupational therapy, has been effective in restoring lumbar vertebrae function to patients with partial spinal cord injury.
One study conducted on subjects with lumbar pain reported that the patients who completed the exercise program experienced less low back pain and improved lumbar muscle strength and flexibility. During the 12-week study, the participants were taught lumbar stabilization exercises. Some of the exercises included crossing arms across the chest, raising the torso to meet the thighs, and simultaneously raising the arms, legs, and chest off the floor.
Reference:
