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- Neck (Cervical)
- The neck (cervical spine) is divided into seven vertebral sections, which are numbered C1—C7, and connects to the upper back (thoracic spine). Pain generating in the neck can originate from trauma or even from the stress of everyday activities, caused by neck strain, pinched nerves and herniated discs. Damage to the cervical spine can cause a number of painful conditions including cervical stenosis, osteoarthritis, wedge fractures, and degenerative disc disease.
- Upper and Mid-Back (Thoracic)
- The upper and mid-back (thoracic spine) are divided into 12 vertebral sections numbered T1—T12. Back pain centralized within this area can be a result of trauma, overuse, strain, or poor posture. Possible injuries to the thoracic spine include intervertebral joint sprain, thoracic muscle rupture, costovertebral joint disorders, and scoliosis.
- Lower Back (Lumbar)
- The lower back (lumbar spine) is divided into five vertebral sections numbered L1—L5. The vertebrae of the lower back are also the largest within the spinal column, allowing them to support the weight of the entire upper body. Lower back pain can be caused by injury or conditions, including, muscle strain, trauma, disc herniation, joint dysfunction, or degenerated discs. Conditions in the lower back may also cause pain that radiates to the lower extremities of the body.
- Pelvic (Sacrum)
- The sacrum is located between the lower back and tailbone (coccyx). It consists of a wedge shaped bone, formed from five segments S1—S5. This segment naturally fuses together between adolescence and early adulthood. The sacrum forms the base of the spinal column and helps support the weight of the body. When healthy, the sacrum is rarely fractured, except in cases of serious injury or trauma. Patients with osteoporosis or rheumatoid arthritis however, are more likely to experience fractures within this region.
- Tailbone (Coccyx)
- The tail end of the spine is referred to as the tailbone or coccyx, and is made up of three to five bones. Pain in the tailbone can be triggered by trauma, injury to the ligaments or bones, excess pressure, fractures, childbirth, or infection. The majority of injuries to the tailbone occur in women, whose tailbones curve out and away from the spine, leaving it more exposed to injury.