Back pain – you are not the only one.

Did you know, that degenerative diseases of the spine rank among the most frequently appearing diseases? In 2015, back pain was the second leading cause for sick leave in Germany according to the DAK health report. In 2009, nearly 40% of all women over 50 years in Germany suffered every day for three month or longer and more than 30% of all men. But enough of numbers, let’s come to the main issue!

So, back pain caused by degenerative diseases or acute conditions of the spine and the surrounding structures are a widespread concern in populations. But what is behind the terms back, back pain and diseases of the spine?

Basic Anatomical Principles You Need to Know.

In order to understand yourself, it’s important to know some basic information about your own body. Similar to the topic ‘back pain’ the structure of the spine is complex.

The human spine consists of 33 vertebrae, 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, 5 lumbar and 5 coccyx vertebrae, whereby the coccyx vertebrae are fused. Even if the basic form of all vertebrae is the same, the form differs individually depending on the location.

• The Spine..

Illustration 1: Swirl and intervertebral disc

As you can see in the picture, the vertebrae are strongly connected to the spinal nerve roots, because they provide an exit hole. For example, the cervical vertebrae provide 8 exit holes on each side for spinal nerve roots. In addition, your spine is shaped in a double S-Form, what enables you to stand, walk and sit in an upright posture. Among single vertebrae there is only a little range of motion possible, but all vertebrae together allow us a great range of motion.

• …and its Vertebrae – Keep Moving!

Illustration 2: Swirl and disc

Besides the osseous structures, the spine is made up of intervertebral discs and ligaments. Beginning at the second cervical spine to the sacrum between each vertebra an intervertebral disc is located consisting of an outer robust fiber band and an inner gelatinous nucleus. Through their special structure, the intervertebral discs’ function as shock absorption and provide stability for the spine. They connect the vertebrae and serve as a pivot point. Diffusion nourishes the intervertebral discs, because they are only negligible supplied by vessels and nerves. Regular physical activity and avoidance of excessive pressure benefits the diffusion and has a preventive effect to degenerative diseases of the spine.

8sense helps you to keep moving to ensure, that your intervertebral discs are nourished. Our back coach supports you to strengthen your back muscles through individual training programs. Notification of the sensors will analyze your attitude and you will get conclusions on the muscle strain.