Lumbago (low back pain)
Cause
Anyone can face lower back pain at some point. The problem may be hereditary, a result of heavy work or back-straining sports. It can also occur spontaneously or after a trauma (accident).
Symptoms
Low back pain is characterized by acute stabbing pain or chronic nagging pain in the low back. This pain may radiate to the flanks and/or to the hip region. Sometimes the pain can radiate to the legs.
Diagnosis
Treatment
An attempt is always made first to solve the problem without surgery. This may mean taking more rest, receiving pain medication or anti-inflammatories and physical therapy. During physical therapy, the focus will be on getting enough exercise with extra attention to strengthening the abdominal and back muscles. If needed, you can attend back and neck school at our rehabilitation center.
If pain persists, you may receive a facet infiltration.
If that doesn't help, an intervertebral disc problem may be at the root. This will need to be treated surgically. You will discuss with your doctor which treatment is best for you.
Departments
For more information, please visit our orthopaedics department.