An overview of the back
The spine, or backbone, is made up of a column of 33 bones and tissue extending from the skull to the pelvis. These bones, or vertebrae, enclose and protect a cylinder of nerve tissues known as the spinal cord. Between each one of the vertebra is an intervertebral disk, a band of cartilage that serves as a shock absorber between the vertebrae. The types of vertebrae are:
- Cervical vertebrae are the seven vertebrae forming the upper part of the spine.
- Thoracic vertebrae are the 12 bones between the neck and the lower back.
- Lumbar vertebrae are the five largest and strongest vertebrae, and are located in the lower back between the chest and hips.
- The sacrum and coccyx are the bones at the base of the spine. The sacrum is made up of five vertebrae fused together, while the coccyx (tailbone) is formed from four fused vertebrae.
What causes back pain?
The causes of back pain can be complex. Some causes of back pain include accidents, muscle strains, and sports injuries.
How is back pain diagnosed?
In addition to performing a complete medical history and physical exam, your doctor might suggest one of the following diagnostic studies.
- X-rays can be used to provide detail of the bone structures in the spine, and to check for instability (such as spondylolisthesis), tumors, and fractures.
- CT scans are capable of imaging to look for specific conditions, such as a herniated disk or spinal stenosis.
- MRI scans can provide details of the back’s discs and nerve roots. MRI scans are most commonly used for pre-surgical planning.
There are a number of other imaging and electrical studies that might also be used, and some injections are used for diagnostic purposes as well as for pain relief.
© Copyright 1995-2008 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All rights reserved
Can't find the health information you’re looking for? Ask a Health Educator, Live!
Click here to go to the Center for Spine Health website.
Know someone who could use this information?....send them this link.
This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 12/1/2004...index#12084
