Each vertebra has a hole in the middle (spinal canal) through which a large bundle of
nerves – the spinal cord – passes. The spinal cord extends from the brain to just above
the buttocks. Spaces, called intervertebral foramina, are located on the sides between
the vertebrae through which the nerves that arise from the spinal cord pass through to
various parts of the body. Any disease, dislocation or degeneration of these structures
can irritate, press or damage the nerves, thus causing pain.
However, the majority of back pain sufferers do not have any problem with their spinal
column. More than 90% of all back-pain cases are due to muscle spasm
involving the muscles of the back. Let us therefore try to understand the muscles
that support the backbone as these are crucial to the cause and solution of majority of
back pains in the world. Thank you for your patience.