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"Inflammatory cells" are the starting point of back pain.
The key answer lies in "cellular inflammation," a tiny, invisible process at the cellular level that gradually and unknowingly destroys the spine, intervertebral discs, and nerves.
What are inflammatory cells?
Cellular inflammation is the body's response to injury, overuse, or infection. The immune system sends chemicals, such as cytokines and prostaglandins, to the injured area, causing swelling, redness, heat, and pain in order to repair the damage and prevent infection.
However, if the inflammatory process becomes chronic, tissues and intervertebral discs are damaged, leading to calcium buildup and bone spurs, which increase the risk of nerve compression and chronic back pain.
The good and bad sides of "inflammatory cells".
Helps protect the body: Draws white blood cells to eliminate foreign substances and repair tissues.
Stimulates tissue regeneration: Increases blood flow and oxygen to the injured area.
If chronic, it can lead to further tissue damage, calcium buildup, and bone spurs, resulting in nerve compression and chronic pain.
Risk behaviors that cause inflammation in the spine.
Sitting or standing for long periods in the same position, such as sitting in front of a computer or looking down at a mobile phone, can cause muscle tension and inflammation.
Lifting heavy objects beyond your capacity or exercising excessively can lead to muscle and tendon injuries.
Spinal osteoarthritis: Friction between the joints and degeneration of the intervertebral discs leads to chronic inflammation.
Simply put, it's like a weightlifter who used to lift 10 kilograms but suddenly has to lift 100 kilograms. Their body can't handle it, leading to ongoing inflammation and injury.
Screen for risk of spinal disc herniation.
To clearly differentiate whether back pain is caused by muscle inflammation or a herniated disc compressing a nerve, accurate diagnosis is crucial. For example:
Physical examination and physical test.
Using MRI or X-rays to view the structure of the spine and intervertebral discs.
Modern medical treatment: Laparoscopic surgery.
If back pain is diagnosed as being caused by a herniated disc compressing a nerve, your doctor may recommend surgery. Modern techniques are available today, such as...
PSLD (Percutaneous Stenoscopic Lumbar Decompression):
Treat lumbar disc stenosis with minimally invasive endoscopic surgery, minimizing injury.
PSCD (Posterior Cervical Endoscopic Discectomy):
Used to treat cervical disc herniation with nerve compression by making a single incision, reducing pressure and promoting faster recovery.
Both techniques belong to the group of endoscopic spine surgery, which emphasizes "small incisions, less pain, reduced complications, and faster recovery."
Prevention and post-treatment care.
Adjust your posture: Sit and stand in the correct alignment. Take breaks and change your posture every 30–60 minutes.
Core muscle strengthening exercises: Such as swimming or Pilates, to strengthen back and torso muscles.
Physical therapy and massage: Help relax muscles, reduce tension, and improve blood circulation.
Minor pain may hide a major danger.
Although inflammation is a normal bodily repair mechanism, if it recurs or becomes chronic, it can damage the spine and intervertebral discs, leading to herniated discs that significantly impact quality of life.
Early diagnosis by a specialist allows for targeted treatment, whether it's physical therapy, medication, or endoscopic surgery.
S Spine & Joint Hospital provides comprehensive care to help you address the root cause of your problems and regain your confidence in life.
Referenced article by...
Dr. Chumpol Kakanant, Spine Specialist.
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