Back pain affects 80% of people in America at some time in their lives. It comes in several forms, from lower back pain, mid back pain, or pain in the upper back. Common back pain will have symptoms that include nerve and muscular pain, degenerative disc diseases, and even and arthritis.

4 Distinct Regions of the Spine

1. The first is the cervical spine. The part of the neck which supports the pressure of the head and insulates the nerves that come from the brain going to the entire body. This part of the spine has seven distinct vertebral bones that decrease in size as they get closer to the bottom of the skull. Most of the rotation of this part of the spine comes from the top two segments.

Sharp neck pain is often caused by a muscle or ligament being strained. This can be caused by sudden force to the neck and will usually heal with time and traditional methods such as ice and/or heat, pain medications, physical therapy or chiropractic care.

For patients with neck pain that is chronic, lasting for several months that is accompanied by arm pain, numbness and tingling, there is often a specific anatomic problem. For example, pain that radiates down the arm and possibly into the hands and fingers is probably a sign of a more serious condition known as a herniated disk.

2. The second section is the thoracic spine. The 12 vertebrae in the upper back are what make up the thoracic spine. The solid connection to the ribcage at each level of this part of the spine provides balance and structural support for the upper back.

3. The third section is the lumbar spine. Since the lower back has a larger range of motion than the thoracic spine and carries the torso's weight, it is the most often injured part of the back. This part of the back is often hurt during heavy lifting activities or strenuous sports activities. It's very important to "lift with your legs" if you need to move something heavy. Trying to hastily pick and move something heavy without your leg muscles leaves your back compromised to distribute the weight.

4. The fourth section is the sacral region. Below the lower back is a bone called the sacrum, which makes up the backend of the pelvis bone. This bone looks like a triangle that is situated in the middle of the two halves of your pelvis. This portion of the spine connects the spine to the bottom half of your body.

Back pain stemming from any of the regions of the spine is very common, but depending on your symptoms may require medical care. Exercise and excellent posture go a very long way in keeping the spine aligned and happy. If you are experiencing back pain in any of the four sections mentioned here, you may also want to seek the advice and care of a reputable chiropractor. They are the specialists when it comes to injuries in all portions of the back.