The human spine is a complex anatomical structure that supports the body and houses the spinal cord. It is comprised of 33 vertebrae, which are categorized into four regions: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and the sacral regions, which include the sacrum and coccyx fused at the base. The lumbar region consists of five vertebrae (L1 to L5) and is situated in the lower back.
In cases where there is damage or a fracture to the vertebrae in the lumbar spine, severe pain and nerve pressure may occur. Such conditions often necessitate surgical intervention when they lead to instability and are not amenable to conservative treatments. Vertebral body replacement surgery in the lumbar spine is a procedure designed to address this by removing the damaged vertebra and stabilizing the spine.
As we age, the spine undergoes degenerative changes, known as lumbar spondylosis. This condition involves the degeneration of vertebrae and disks in the lower back, leading to symptoms that may resemble those of a spinal fracture. Non-surgical options should always be considered initially, but persistent pain linked to a mechanical issue in the spine may require surgical procedures.
For those suffering from back pain, exercises to stabilize the spine can be beneficial. A stable spine supports a healthy and pain-free lower back. Core strengthening exercises can bolster the musculature around the spine, aiding in stability and potentially alleviating discomfort.
The spine, composed of about 30 bones called vertebrae, is stacked in a column and each vertebra is made up of an external bone surface with an internal honeycomb structure for support.
For further reading on the topics of spinal health and treatments, the following resources are available:
bones of the back,
vertebral body replacement surgery,
in-depth overview of low back pain,
lumbar spinal stenosis,
lumbar spondylosis degeneration,
when back surgery is the right choice,
spinal cord compression,
better spine health, and
understanding a broken back.
