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.
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