The neck or cervical spine is made up of the first seven vertebrae, six discs, nerves and many ligaments, muscles and their tendons. The cervical vertebrae are the smallest of our spine and the first two cervical vertebrae are unique and do not have a disc. Neck pain is very common; some studies state neck pain is more common in women than men. Traumatic or sporting events can lead to neck pain, however, more commonly neck pain is brought on by “normal” daily activities. Prolonged sitting, computer use, and poor posture are common causes of neck pain. Often patients report their neck pain started for “no apparent reason”.
The mid back or thoracic spine is made up of the middle 12 vertebrae. The thoracic spine is the least mobile section of our spine. This spinal section’s unique feature is its articulations or joints with the ribs. The ribs help form a protective armor for our internal organs.
The low back or lumbar spine is made up of the last five vertebrae and their discs, nerves, and many ligaments muscles and tendons. The vertebral bodies of the lumbar spine are the largest and the lumbar nerve roots form the largest of the nerves, the sciatic nerve. Low back pain is very common; studies show that 50-80% of adults will experience low back pain. Activities such as repetitive bending, lifting, prolonged sitting and poor posture are common causes of back pain. Disc injuries are also common in the lumbar spine, with the L5 and L4 disc most involved. Traumatic injury and sporting events can also lead to injury.
At Mercy Physical Therapy Center, we have therapists who specialize in treating spine problems.
For more information contact:
Mercy Physical Therapy Center
Westgate Shopping Center
1364 Congress Street, Unit 3
Portland, ME 04102
(207) 400-8530