Back Injuries

The spine provides support for the entire human body. It is comprised of vertebrae, discs, muscles, tendons, and ligaments to provide support, flexibility, and movement to the head and torso. The spine is also home to the spinal canal which provides nerves to the rest of the body. This is why many back injuries can result in pain felt in other regions of the body. In between each vertebrae of the spine there is an intervertebral disc. These discs are often likened to a jelly donut because they have a tough yet squishy exterior and are filled with a jelly-like substance in order to provide cushion in between the bones. There are also facet joints found along the spine in between each vertebrae. These joints work together with the intervertebral discs to limit motion and hold the vertebrae in proper alignment. In the low back region of the spine, there are two Sacroiliac (SI) Joints on either side, connecting the spine to the pelvis. This is a very strong, limited-motion joint, reinforced by strong ligaments because its duty is to transfer all the forces of the upper body onto the hips and legs.