Lumbago
Encyclopedia : L : LU : LUM : Lumbago
Lumbago is a term used to refer to the symptom of low back pain. The primary symptom is low back pain, but the pain may also extend to the buttocks, thigh(s) and leg(s) in either a uni- or bi- lateral fashion (but usually only on one side). If the primary symptom is leg pain, then the symptoms are usually called sciatica rather than lumbago.
Lumbago may also be accompanied by other symptoms and signs such as loss of sensation (usually the sole of the foot and posterior aspect of the calf region) and motor function (usually loss of plantar flexion of the foot and toes as well as a diminished ankle jerk reflex) in some areas and back stiffness (pain and rigidity upon movement of the lumbrosacral part of the spine). Other signs include reduced ability to walk or raise one's foot once straightened.
The cause of back aches is difficult to assess, but it is thought that the most common cause of low back pain is muscle strain or other soft tissue problem. Other common causes of lumbago include lumbar disc herniation, a degenerative disc disease, or other disc problems. Weak stomach muscles and weak back muscles are thought to increase the stress on the back and contribute to back pain.
There are many non-surgical means of managing low back pain. Typical approaches include the use of NSAIDs, physiotherapy and, if needed, one or two days of bed rest at the onset of severe pain. If the pain is severe and continues more than a few weeks or months, or if there may be permanent loss of function of the limb(s) involved, surgical options may be considered.
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