Depending on the region of the spine affected, a patient may experience some of the following problems:

Cervical Spine:

• Pain and stiffness in neck.
• Arm pain.
• Weakness and numbness in the arms.
• The feeling of pins and needles in the arms.
• Unsteadiness of gait.

Thoracic Spine:

• Back pain.
• Possible physical deformity of the spine.

Lumbar Spine:

• Pain in the lower back that may radiate to the buttocks and back of the thighs (sciatica).
• Problems in performing daily tasks like picking up things, sitting, walking, running and so on.
• Altered bowel or urinary bladder function.
• Weakness and numbness in one or both legs.
• Impotence and erectile dysfunction (in males).

The pain is often aggravated by work and relieved with rest. The backache will often improve but may last for a long time.