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Intetrapodanatomy,lumbar is anadjective that means of or pertaining to theabdominal segment of thetorso, between thediaphragm and thesacrum.
Thelumbar region is sometimes referred to as the lowerspine, or as an area of the back in its proximity.
Inhuman anatomy the fivelumbar vertebrae (vertebrae in the lumbar region of the back) are the largest and strongest in the movable part of thespinal column, and can be distinguished by the absence of aforamen in thetransverse process, and by the absence of facets on the sides of the body. In mostmammals, the lumbar region of the spine curves outward.
The actualspinal cord terminates between vertebrae one and two of this series, called L1 and L2. Thenervous tissue that extends below this point are individual strands that collectively form thecauda equina. In between each lumbar vertebra anerve root exits, and these nerve roots come together again to form the largest single nerve in thehuman body, thesciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs through the back of each leg and into the feet. This is why a disorder of the low back that affects a nerve root, such as aspinal disc herniation, can cause pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve (sciatica) down into the foot.
There are severalmuscles in the low back that assist with rotation, flexibility and strength. These muscles are susceptible to injury, especially while lifting heavy objects, or lifting while twisting. A low backmuscle strain can be extremely painful but will usually heal within a few days or weeks.
The lumbar portion of the spine bears the most body weight and also provides the most flexibility, a combination that makes it susceptible to injury and wear and tear over time. This is whylow back pain is so prevalent.[1]
