Up to 80% of Americans experience back pain at some point in their life. Vertebrae and disks can wear down with age, causing pain. Other conditions that affect spine health include:

• Arthritic conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

• Back strains and sprains.

• Birth defects such as spina bifida.

• Bone spurs (jagged edges on vertebrae that put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves).

• Curvatures of the spine (scoliosis and kyphosis).

• Neuromuscular diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

• Nerve injuries, including spinal stenosis, sciatica, and pinched nerves.

• Osteoporosis (weak bones).

• Spinal cord injuries, including spinal fractures, herniated disks, and paralysis.

• Spine tumors and cancer.

• Spine infections like meningitis and osteomyelitis.