Which vertebrae could be the cause of your aching back?

There are 33 vertebrae in your spine. They start at the base of your skull and end at your tailbone. Each vertebra is a small bone that protects your spinal cord and allows you to move your neck and back.

The vertebrae are divided into five regions:

* Cervical vertebrae: There are seven cervical vertebrae in your neck.

* Thoracic vertebrae: There are 12 thoracic vertebrae in your chest.

* Lumbar vertebrae: There are five lumbar vertebrae in your lower back.

* Sacral vertebrae: There are five sacral vertebrae in your pelvis.

* Coccygeal vertebrae: There are four coccygeal vertebrae in your tailbone.

Any of these vertebrae could be the cause of your aching back. Some common causes of back pain include:

* Muscle strain: This is the most common cause of back pain. It can be caused by overuse, lifting something heavy, or sitting in an awkward position.

* Herniated disc: This occurs when the soft material inside a vertebra leaks out and presses on a nerve. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in your back, arms, or legs.

* Sciatica: This is a type of back pain that is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs from your lower back down your legs. Sciatica can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in your lower back, buttocks, and legs.

* Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spaces in your spine. This can put pressure on your spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in your back, arms, or legs.

* Osteoporosis: This is a condition that causes your bones to become weak and brittle. This can increase your risk of developing a vertebral compression fracture, which can cause back pain.

If you are experiencing back pain, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and get treatment.