We’ve been working our way down the spine with our series on spine health and today’s blog post is focused on the lumbar spine. The lumbar spine is the lower back, just before the sacrum. It’s a place where many of our chiropractic patients experience back.
While the lumbar spine is strong and resilient, it also supports a lot of weight. Because it is near the bottom of the spine, it supports the rest of the spine as well as helps you move and twist from side to side.
Continue reading to learn more about this important part of the lower back and central nervous system, and if you’re experiencing any lower back pain, neck pain, or other back issue, contact Revelation Chiropractic in Fort Collins to schedule an appointment with one of our chiropractors.
Functions of the Lumbar Spine
The lower back performs several important functions and the vertebrae that make up the lumbar region are the largest compared to other regions of the spine. The vertebrae are larger because they need to support and stabilize the upper body, including the weight of the head and neck. The lumbar spine then transfers that load from the upper body to the legs. You can think of it as an important transition between the upper body and lower body.
The lumbar spine allows for moving your trunk in various directions. The spine is a unique part of the body because of it’s range of motion, and it allows you to move front to back, side to side, and in a range of twisting movement. These movements largely occur in the last two verebral layers.
Like all regions of the spine, the lumbar spine also protects the spinal cord and the vertebral arches. It’s important to encase these sensitive nerves within the protective bone of the spine, otherwise your nervous system can be damaged.
Lastly, the lumbar spine controls leg movements. The nerves that branch off from this region of the spine control sensation and movement within the legs, allowing you to walk and feel your toes! Your spine is vital to the functioning of all parts of your body, which is why it’s so important to keep it healthy. Part of keeping a healthy central nervous system is scheduling regular visits to your chiropractor.
Lumbar Spine Anatomy
Causes of Lumbar Spine Pain
The lumbar spine is the site of many back injuries and back pain. These can range from an impact injury or spinal arthritis, slipped discs, and more. Muscular problems, like strained or pulled tissues, can also cause lower back pain. Sometimes people lift heavy things without proper form, and that can cause strain to the lumbar region. Lower back pain can also be caused by lack of physical activity or from poor posture. Many of the people who come to see our Fort Collins chiropractors are experiencing back pain from working long hours in an office.
Lumbar spine pain may also be caused by degenerated discs. Discs are spongy pads that act as cushion and support between vertebrae. Like anything in your body, these discs can begin to degrade over time, causing pain between the vertebrae or a pinched nerve. If you’re experiencing shooting pain or numbness and weakness in the rear pelvis or down the leg, you may have a pinched nerve in the lumbar spine.
Treatment
Our office specializes in Torque Release Technique, a special form of chiropractic adjustment that uses a high-tech tool called the Integrator instead of manual manipulation. If you’re someone who is intimidated by the cracking and popping associated with visiting the chiropractor, then Torque Release Technique may be for you! Adjustments are made on a relaxed spine and it is safe for people of all ages, including children and pregnant women.
Revelation Chiropractic Fort Collins
Our team of chiropractors is here to help you find relief from back pain, whether you’re experiencing pain within your lumbar spine, pelvis, or somewhere else in your body. We’re passionate about the power of chiropractic adjustments, and we’ve seen how it can change lives!
We started our chiropractic practice in order to help people live happier, healthier, pain-free lives. We specialize in the Torque Release Technique to align your spine without any loud popping or cracking and all of our adjustments are gentle and performed on a fully relaxed spine. Schedule a consultation today and discover the difference chiropractic adjustments can make in your life!
