What is lumbago?

Lumbago, also known as low back pain, is pain in the lower back. It's a very common condition, affecting most people at some point in their lives. While often temporary and resolving on its own, it can be debilitating for some individuals.

Here's a breakdown of key information:

Causes: Lumbago's causes are varied and often not definitively identified. Potential causes include:

• Muscle strains or sprains: This is a frequent cause, often resulting from lifting heavy objects improperly, twisting motions, or overuse.
• Disc problems: Herniated or bulging discs in the lower spine can irritate nerves and cause pain. Degenerative disc disease, a natural process of aging, also contributes to pain.
• Osteoarthritis: This joint disease can affect the spine, causing pain and stiffness.
• Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it.
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on nerves.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition causing widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
• Other medical conditions: Kidney infections, infections of the spine, tumors, and other internal organ problems can sometimes cause referred pain to the lower back.
• Poor posture: Sustained poor posture can strain back muscles.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on the spine.
• Lack of exercise: Weak core muscles can contribute to back pain.
• Stress: Psychological stress can exacerbate back pain.

Symptoms: Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain. These can include:

• Sharp, shooting pain: Often radiating down the leg (sciatica).
• Dull, aching pain: Persistent and less intense.
• Muscle spasms: Sudden, involuntary muscle contractions.
• Stiffness: Difficulty bending or twisting.
• Limited range of motion: Reduced ability to move the lower back.
• Numbness or tingling: In the legs or buttocks (if nerve roots are affected).

Diagnosis: Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, reviewing medical history, and possibly imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to rule out serious underlying conditions.

Treatment: Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the pain. Options include:

• Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen.
• Heat or ice packs: Applying heat or ice can help relieve pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility.
• Chiropractic care: Spinal manipulation.
• Medication: Stronger pain relievers or muscle relaxants may be prescribed for severe pain.
• Injections: Epidural steroid injections can reduce inflammation.
• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a structural problem.

Prevention: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly (especially core strengthening exercises), practicing good posture, and using proper lifting techniques can help prevent lumbago. If you experience persistent or severe low back pain, it's crucial to seek professional medical advice.