Back pain and the homoeostatic requirements of the spinal system

The cause of most cases of back pain remains uncertain. In this article, the theory that some back pain is a result of disturbed mechanical function is pursued with reference to the homoeostatic requirements of the spine. In particular, the problem of coordinating the redundant degrees of freedom of the spinal system is discussed, and the emerging field of coordination dynamics is introduced. Theoretical mechanisms underlying idiopathic back pain, according to this approach, are discussed. Work currently being carried out to test predictions arising from this theoretical framework are also outlined.