Glossary – Back Health Terms Explained

Nerve compression in the wrist. Typing and mouse work can trigger symptoms like tingling and numbness in fingers.

The upper section of the spine (7 vertebrae). Carries the head (about 5 kg) and is vulnerable to poor posture.

The lower end of the spine (4-5 fused vertebrae). Painful when sitting too long on hard chairs.

Shock absorber between vertebrae, consisting of a fibrous ring and gelatinous core. Nourished through movement.

The science of adapting working conditions to human needs. Goal: healthy, efficient work without strain.

Connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, and organs. Gets sticky with lack of movement, causing tension.

The gelatinous core of a disc leaks and presses on nerves. Can cause radiating pain, numbness, or tingling.

Muscle group that lifts the leg. Shortens from prolonged sitting and can cause lower back pain.

Excessive outward curve of the upper spine. Typical desk worker posture from weak back muscles.

Excessive inward curve of the lower spine. Often caused by weak abs and tight hip flexors.

Connection between sacrum and pelvis. Frequently locks up from prolonged sitting, causing sharp lower back pain.

Natural inward curve of the spine (neck and lower back). Can be exaggerated (hyperlordosis) with poor posture.

Cushioning on office chairs supporting the natural curve of the lower back. Essential for healthy sitting.

The lower section of the spine (5 vertebrae). Bears the most weight and is most commonly affected by pain.

Small, unconscious position changes while sitting. Nourish the spinal discs and prevent tension.

Hardened spot in muscle tissue that hurts under pressure and can radiate pain to other body areas.

Small muscle in the glutes that often presses on the sciatic nerve. Can cause glute and leg pain.

See Iliosacral Joint.

Pain along the sciatic nerve, often caused by a herniated disc or piriformis syndrome. Radiates from the lower back down the leg.

Alternating between sitting and standing at work. Optimal rhythm: 30 minutes sitting, 5 minutes standing, 2 minutes walking.

Office chair mechanism where backrest and seat move together. Enables dynamic sitting.

Neck pain from constantly looking down at smartphones or laptops. The head can feel up to 20 kg heavy in this position.

The middle section of the spine (12 vertebrae). Particularly prone to rounding (hyperkyphosis) from prolonged sitting.

See Muscle Knot.

Neck injury from sudden back-and-forth movement of the head. Can cause chronic neck pain if not treated properly.