Understanding Lumbago: Common Symptoms, Causes and TreatmentsPeople who have a common musculoskeletal disorder, known as lumbago, often have a hard time enjoying everyday activities that used to bring them pleasure. What is lumbago? Basically, this condition refers to a pain that stems from the lower back region. If you have lumbago, you’re not alone as it affects about 80 percent of the Western world population. Maybe you have lower back pain, but aren’t sure of the symptoms of lumbago. Here are a few of the common signs and causes, along with how this problem can be treated, using chiropractic care.

Common Symptoms

It’s important to recognize the basic signs that could suggest lumbago.

  • Pain that’s located in the lumbar area of the spine is the primary symptom. Typically, this pain includes lower back stiffness, muscle tension and achiness. In the worst cases, mobility can be compromised.
  • The pain is localized, meaning that it’s confined to a small area.
  • Restricted movement of the spine can be a symptom, such as when you try to bend over or lean backwards.
  • Another indication of lumbago can be pain felt in the lower portion of the back that can spread out into the buttock, the groin or to the back of the thigh.
  • If the pain includes numbness in the buttocks, back or leg, along with a tingling feeling that radiates down the leg to the foot, it is known as sciatica. This occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated.
  • Swelling or inflammation of the back or leg can be a warning sign.
  • Lower back pain when you sneeze or cough can also suggest lumbago.

Causes of Lumbago

Sometimes, the cause of lumbago is hard to pinpoint, even after comprehensive medical tests have been done. Lumbago can be caused from several factors, but the main reason is the overuse of the lower back and the sudden lifting of a heavy load.

Lumbago can be the result of excessive bending or other repetitive motions involving the lower back. Osteoarthritis and spinal arthritis (spondylosis) can be factors.

Other causes may include a slipped or herniated disc, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis or compression of the spinal nerves, scoliosis and malignant or benign spinal tumors.

Treatment Options for Lumbago

Treatment for Lumbago varies depending on many different factors, including patient age, weight, activity level and much more. The following are treatment options:

  • anti-inflammatories for temporary pain relief
  • hot or cold compresses
  • exercise and gentle stretches
  • yoga
  • acupuncture
  • chiropractic & spinal manipulation
  • physical therapy
  • surgery

Don’t let lower back pain keep you from living your best life! Call the orthopaedic specialists at Hampton Roads Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and find out more about our wide range of treatment options. Please contact us to schedule an appointment today.