Two Causes of Back Pain
By Debra Rodzinak
With so many different terms used to describe spinal problems -- herniated disc, pinched nerve, bulging disc, etc. -- it is no wonder that patients often become confused about what exactly is causing their back pain. The problem is compounded when healthcare professionals themselves don’t always agree on the precise definition to many terms. Many patients, myself included, don’t really care about the technical terms, but rather solutions to alleviate the pain with a precise medical diagnosis.
Pinched Nerve Versus Disc Pain
When identifying the cause of pain in the back, generally two types of spinal disc problems are named:
- Pinched Nerve - When a disc becomes herniated, the disc itself does not hurt. However, the fluid that is inside the casing surrounding the spinal nerves begins to leak out. When this happens, the nearby nerve becomes pinched or irritated. This type of pain radiates to other body parts. The many different types of pinched nerve pain can be caused from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, and spinal arthritis.
- Disc Pain - When the disc itself is the culprit of pain, it is often referred to as a symptomatic degenerated disc or axial pain. This pain causes pain in the lower back or leg.
Common Areas for Back Pain
The spinal discs are the cushiony pieces between the spinal vertebrae that serve as shock absorbers to the spine. When one of these becomes worn away, the vertebrae will fall out of alignment, often pinching a nerve in the process. Wherever this happens, pain will develop in the part of the body that the nerve serves.
Most of this type of spinal stenosis occurs in the lower back or lumbar region. The nerves in this area serve the lower part of the body, mainly the legs and feet. This is why many patients who suffer from spinal stenosis also complain of pain in their feet or legs.
If the disc is herniated in the upper portion or cervical region, the pain can be felt in the shoulder, arms, or fingers. Neurological symptoms can also be caused by a degeneration in the cervical region.
Very rarely does a disc herniate in the thoracic or middle region of the spine. Injuries to this part of the back are most likely the cause of an injury or accident. The pain will develop in the upper back, stomach, or chest.
Finding Relief
If you are experiencing pain from a pinched nerve or herniated disc, drop by The Joint for a gentle adjustment to your spine. Our expert doctors understand the relationship between the spine and the nerves that cause pain. With no pesky insurance forms to fill out or appointment times to remember, The Joint can make finding pain relief from a pinched nerve or disc pain simple and stress-free.