Discogenic Pain
Discs are located between the vertebrae and act as the shock absorbers of the spine. The discs are made up of fibrous layers-called annuli-surrounding a gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus or nucleus. As we grow older we lose fluid from the discs. Discs begin losing blood supply by age 20 and start to become brittle and prone to crack. When discs crack, they release pain-causing chemicals from their center, a process called disc degeneration. Risk factors for low back pain are:
- Age
- Activity level
- Diet
- Comorbidities
- Occupational environment
- Smoking
Causes
Lower back pain afflicts millions of Americans. There are multiple causes of low back pain including muscle strain and spasm, degenerative disc disease, facet arthropathy, herniated discs, lumber spinal stenosis, radiculopathy, sacroiliac joint pain, and spondylolisthesis. These confusing terms are all painful conditions. Each one is explained in the others category. Tumors and infection are possible causes, but much less likely candidates. Additionally, the joints in the low back can become arthritic and cause pain (lumbar facet joint pain).
Pain Management Can Help
There are multiple treatment options when dealing with low back pain. At Pain Management Associates, we use a comprehensive approach to helping you return to a healthy lifestyle as free of back pain as possible. If you are within driving distance of Fort Wayne, then contact Pain Management to discuss treatment options. Almost all back pain can be improved with quality treatment.