Understanding the Lower Back

The back is a complicated combination bones and muscles, all working together with the spine to support the body and all movement.  The lower back is also called the 'lumbosacral area' of the back. It is the part of the back between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the legs.  The lumbosacral area supports the entire weight of the upper body, and therefore is under a great deal of constant stress.  The low back area is where most people experience their back pain and find that they need low back support products to help offset this pressure. 

The majority of the lower back consists of muscles that are attached to the spine. The spine is made up of 30 vertebrae, roughly circular bones that encircle the delicate spinal cord.  The vertebrae of the spine protect the spinal cord, which contains the nerve pathways to and from the brain. Nerves from the spinal cord come out from between the vertebrae to take and receive messages to various parts of the body. 

Break Down of vertebrae arrangement 

C1 – C7: cervical or neck vertebrae

T1 – T12: thoracic or upper back vertebrae

L1 – L5: Lumbar Vertebrae, including sacrum and coccyx

In between each vertebra is a gathering of cartilage that is called a 'disc'. The cartilage discs between the vertebrae are a combination of a strong fibrous outer layer and a softer, gel like center.  This construction allows for movement and flexibility in the lower back, as well as absorbing shock and protecting the spiral cord.  The commonly used term “slipped disc” actually refers to the medical condition of a spinal herniated disc.  This condition involves a tear in fibrous lining of the cartilage, and the softer center budges out.  It can cause an extreme pain in the lower back.  Proper low back support products can help prevent and alleviate the pain of this condition. 

Strong ligaments attach to vertebrae to give extra support and strength to the spine. The various muscles that are attached to the spine enable the spine to bend and move with great flexibility.