Common Back Conditions:

Herniated Disc : Between the vertebra in your spine, you will find elastic like discs. These discs provide cushioning or padding which helps facilitate normal function and movement of your spine. Over time a disc can lose it elastic quality and as a result, it can rupture. Unfortunately, when the disc does rupture, a part of it can push outside its normal boundary --this is results in what is called a herniated disc. When a person herniates a disc, it can cause pressure / irritation on the spinal nerves. Needless to say this can cause pain and varying levels of disability. Typically, people suffer disc hernation at the level of L4-5, and L5-S1.

Sciatica : When an individual suffers from inflammation of their sciatic nerve, this is said to be "Sciatica". The sciatic nerve is important because it supplies information to and from to your leg and brain. It is also the largest peripheral nerve in your body, The sciatic nerved is formed by the lower aspect of the spinal cord, which it then passes through your hip joint and down the posterior aspect of your thigh.