alaselän

Alaselän is the Finnish term for the lower back, the region of the trunk between the thorax and the pelvis. In anatomical terms it corresponds to the lumbar region, centered on the lumbar spine and the surrounding soft tissues.

Anatomy and structure: The lumbar region includes the five lumbar vertebrae (L1–L5), intervertebral discs, and facet joints. It is surrounded by muscles such as the erector spinae, multifidus, quadratus lumborum, and psoas major, as well as connective tissues, ligaments, and fascia. Nerves that contribute to sensation and motor control in this area originate from the lower thoracic and upper lumbar segments.

Nerves and circulation: Sensory and motor innervation in the area largely arises from the lumbar spinal nerves, which contribute to the lumbar plexus. Blood supply comes from the lumbar arteries branching from the aorta, delivering nutrients to vertebrae, discs, muscles, and ligaments.

Function: The alaselän region provides essential support for the torso, distributes forces between the upper body and pelvis, and enables movements such as flexion, extension, and lateral bending. It also plays a key role in spinal stabilization during posture and movement.

Clinical relevance: Lower back pain is a common condition with a wide range of causes, including muscle strains, disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis. Symptoms may be localized or radiate to the buttocks or legs (radicular pain). Diagnosis often combines physical examination with imaging as needed. Treatments emphasize physical therapy and exercise, analgesics or NSAIDs, and lifestyle adjustments; injections or surgical options are considered in select cases.

Prevention and care: Regular core strengthening, proper lifting techniques, posture awareness, and gradual activity increases can help protect the alaselän region and reduce the risk of injury.