Lumbago

Lumbago is an acute pain in the back that also serves as a protective reflex. But how do I know if I need medical treatment for lumbago?

Cause: What triggers lumbago?

One wrong movement, you have slipped and suddenly a sharp pain shoots up into your lower back. Sometimes it can take some time before the stabbing pain becomes noticeable and a specific trigger cannot always be found.

The spine consists of several segments. If there is a micro tear in one of these segments, for example in an intervertebral disc, the body reacts with a protective reflex to prevent the tear from enlarging. The muscles tense up to hold the segment in place. Poorly trained back muscles therefore additionally promote lumbago.

Symptoms: What does lumbago feel like?

The cramping muscles have a useful function, but at the same time they are very painful. The stabbing pain in the lower back is often so severe that the person suffering from lumbago is suddenly unable to move. Many people who suffer from lumbago tend to lean forward because it hurts to straighten up.

Lumbago or slipped disc?

But not every case of lumbago necessarily results in a slipped disc. The micro tear heals after a while and the reflex slowly subsides. However, if the lumbago gets worse, it may well be the first sign of a slipped disc. The reason: in this case, the micro-injury at disc level is greater. Particularly if the pain radiates and signs of paralysis occur, caution is advised and the suspicion of a herniated disc should be clarified by a doctor.

Treatment: When does lumbago need to be treated?

If the lumbago is very severe, the muscle insertions are overloaded by the protective reflex. This manifests itself in the fact that the patient can no longer move and suffers from severe pain. This overload is initially treated conservatively with injection therapy using physical measures and the spasm is relieved. Heat can also help against cramping muscles.