Lumbago is pain in the lumbar region, which is the lower part of the back. It can be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling in the buttocks or legs, or difficulty walking with one leg.

In most cases, lumbago is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve due to poor posture, a herniated disc, or spinal osteoarthritis.

Treatment for lumbago is guided by an orthopedic doctor or rheumatologist and depends on the underlying cause. Options may include anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, physical therapy, or, in some cases, surgery.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of lumbago include:

Pain in the lower back that may radiate to the leg or buttock
Sensation of shocks, tingling, or burning in the buttock or leg
Difficulty walking with one leg
Trouble sitting or standing for long periods
Stiffness or difficulty moving or straightening the back

If symptoms of lumbago are present, it is important to consult an orthopedic doctor or rheumatologist to determine the cause and start the most appropriate treatment.

Where lumbago is felt

Lumbago typically causes pain in the lower back, or lumbar region.

This pain may be sharp, burning, or tingling, and can remain in the lower back or radiate to the buttock or leg.

In some cases, the pain may come and go, while in others it can be constant.

How lumbago is diagnosed

Diagnosis of lumbago is made by an orthopedic doctor or rheumatologist through an evaluation of symptoms, medical history, any past trauma to the lower back, and a physical exam.

The doctor may also order imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT scan) to identify the cause of lumbago.

Is lumbago serious?

Lumbago is considered serious when the pain is severe or persistent, or when it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or sensations of shocks, numbness, or weakness in one or both legs.

It can also be more concerning when it occurs in people younger than 20 or older than 55, or when it develops after a fall or accident.

In these cases, it is recommended to seek emergency care immediately.

Causes of lumbago

The main causes of lumbago include:

Poor posture
Trauma to the lower back, such as from falls or accidents
Fractures in the lumbar spine
Herniated lumbar disc
Osteoarthritis of the spine, bone spurs, or rheumatoid arthritis
Scoliosis, ankylosing spondylitis, spondylolisthesis, or myofascial pain syndrome

Excess weight can also increase the risk of lumbago, since it changes the body’s center of gravity, weakens abdominal muscles, and places greater strain on the spine.

Lumbago is more common in people who do manual labor, such as heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or spending long periods sitting or standing in the same position.

Types of lumbago

Lumbago can be classified into the following types:

1. Acute lumbago

Acute lumbago is defined as lower back pain that lasts up to 6 weeks.

It is usually caused by poor posture, repetitive movements, or lifting weight incorrectly.

In many cases, acute lumbago improves on its own, but in some situations it may persist for longer periods.

2. Subacute lumbago

Subacute lumbago refers to lower back pain that lasts between 6 and 12 weeks.

3. Chronic lumbago

Chronic lumbago is when lower back pain lasts 12 weeks or longer.

It is often linked to conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, arthritis, depression, or fibromyalgia.

Treatment options

Treatment for lumbago should be guided by an orthopedic doctor or rheumatologist and will vary depending on the cause of pain.

1. Medications for lumbago

Medications that may be prescribed for lumbago include:

Pain relievers such as acetaminophen
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac
Opioids such as tramadol or codeine
Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine or diazepam

These medications can provide temporary relief from back pain caused by lumbago.

In cases of chronic lumbago, other drugs such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants may also be prescribed.

2. Physical therapy

Physical therapy for lumbago is used to reduce symptoms and relieve inflammation in the lumbar spine or sciatic nerve.

A physical therapist may recommend stretching and strengthening exercises for the back, as well as heat therapy, either superficial or deep. Read more about stretches for lower back pain that you can perform at home to relieve pain.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can also be used, especially in chronic cases.

3. Spinal injections

In some cases, an orthopedic doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections into the lumbar spine. These are usually considered for lumbago caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, or nerve compression.

4. Spinal surgery

Surgery may be needed in more severe cases of lumbago, such as lumbar spine fractures or significant nerve compression.

It may also be an option when other treatments have not been effective, particularly in cases of lumbago caused by a herniated disc.

Self-care for lumbago

Self-care strategies can help reduce lower back pain caused by lumbago. The most common include:

Resting during the first 48 hours after the onset of pain
Applying cold compresses to the lower back for the first 48 hours, then switching to warm compresses
Doing stretching and strengthening exercises recommended by a physical therapist
Avoiding repetitive strain or heavy lifting
Taking medications prescribed by a doctor
Drinking at least 8 cups of water per day to stay hydrated

Maintaining a diet with anti-inflammatory foods such as tuna, sardines, salmon, flaxseed, or chia may also help reduce inflammation in the spine and ease lower back pain. Check-out anti-inflammatory tea recipes that you can prepare to treat inflammation naturally.

Lumbago: Symptoms, Is It Serious, Causes, Types & Treatment