The lumbar part of the spine provides a movable support structure for the back. Parts of the low back that can be related to pain in this region include the muscles found in the back region, bony vertebrae that make up the spine, discs between the vertebrae, and the spinal cord, ligaments, and nerves that are housed by the vertebrae. The pain itself can be localized or may be deferred to areas down the leg(s).
Injuries to the back include strain/sprain, bulges, herniations, scoliosis, nerve impingement, muscle spasms, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and sciatica.
Physical therapy treatments for low back pain/sciatica aim to reduce pain, restore normal joint function and improve muscle function.