Lumbago, also known as acute lumbago or lumbago acuta, is a sudden pain in the lower back that often comes on without warning. It is a very common cause of back pain and can greatly affect everyday life. Acute low back pain is characterised by pain in the lower back, stiffness and sometimes locking of the back, making it difficult to move.
Symptoms of back pain
The most common symptoms of back pain include:
- Severe, acute pain in the lower back
- Pain that may radiate to the buttocks or legs (sometimes similar to the leg pain of sciatica)
- Stiffness and difficulty straightening the back
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Back pain with reduced mobility
- Increased pain when coughing, sneezing or trying to turn your back sideways
Pain often occurs with movement, but can also occur when you stand up, bend over or lift. Some people experience a feeling of their back ‘locking up’.
Causes - why do people get back pain?
Back pain can sometimes occur for no clear reason, but usually it is due to:
- Heavy lifting or incorrect working position
- Sudden strain or twisting the back sideways
- Muscle imbalances and weak trunk muscles
- Stress or prolonged sedentary behaviour
The back is very commonly stressed in everyday life, and many people experience back pain at some point in their lives. Sometimes, recurrent back pain can be due to underlying problems that need to be investigated.
Treatment for back pain
Treatment for back pain aims to relieve the pain, promote movement and prevent the problem from becoming long-term. In the acute phase (first few days):
- Try to keep moving - sitting still often makes the condition worse
- Rest briefly with a pillow under your tailbone or legs elevated to relieve your back
- Avoid heavy lifting and fast movements
- Wear a specialized back support designed to provide effective relief for the lower back
Exercises to do for back pain
Exercise is an important part of back pain treatment. Here are some gentle exercises to do:
- Lie on your back with your legs bent and arms moving - your back in a dynamic way
- Knees from side to side in small movements
- Stand and gently tilt the body forwards and backwards
The aim is to reduce pain and increase circulation in the area. Exercise is adapted to the level of pain and should not make the condition worse.
What to do if you have a back injury?
Getting a backache can be scary, but it is often harmless and resolves within a few days to weeks. With the right strategy - relieving pain, keeping moving and taking pressure off your back when needed - you can recover faster. If you have had recurrent back pain or other symptoms of lower back pain, it may be wise to see a physiotherapist to prevent future problems.
