What is the most common back injury region?

The most common back injury region is largely recognized as being in the L5-S1 area, which is at the junction between the lumbar spine and the sacral region. This area is particularly vulnerable due to its connection to both the mobility of the lumbar vertebrae and the stability required by the sacrum.

In this region, the biomechanics of movement, combined with the weight-bearing responsibilities of the lumbar spine, often lead to injury. The L5-S1 joint supports considerable load during activities like lifting or bending, making it a frequent site for herniated discs, osteoarthritis, and other degenerative changes. Pain experienced in this region can also radiate down the legs, complicating the clinical picture due to potential involvement of the sciatic nerve.

The cervical region, T12-L1, and the sacral area, although they can certainly experience injuries as well, do not exhibit the same frequency of back injuries as L5-S1 because they either have different biomechanical loading patterns or are anatomically designed for stability rather than mobility. The lumbar spine's relatively large range of motion in a weight-bearing context contributes to the high incidence of injuries in the L5-S1 area.