Lombalgia

Lombalgia, or low back pain, refers to discomfort in the lumbar region. It is a common condition affecting adults, with most episodes resolving within a few weeks. The term covers a range from mild, self-limiting pain to more persistent symptoms.

Causes include non-specific musculoskeletal strain from lifting or overuse, poor posture, and sedentary lifestyle. Other etiologies are disc herniation, facet joint arthritis, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis-related fractures, infections, inflammatory diseases, and rarely tumors. Red flags requiring urgent evaluation include fever, unexplained weight loss, history of cancer, severe or progressive neurologic deficit, numbness around the groin, loss of bladder or bowel control, and severe trauma.

Symptoms: Dull or sharp pain in the lower back, stiffness, restricted movement, and sometimes radiation to buttocks or legs (sciatica). Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest.

Diagnosis: Initial assessment is clinical. Imaging is not routinely needed in uncomplicated cases but is used when red flags are present or symptoms persist beyond 6 weeks. MRI or CT can detect nerve compression or structural problems; blood tests may help exclude infection or inflammatory disease.

Treatment and prognosis: Most respond to conservative care: staying active, heat or cold, NSAIDs or acetaminophen, and physical therapy. Additional options include short-term muscle relaxants, targeted injections for persistent nerve pain, and, rarely, surgery. With proper care, many improve within weeks to months; some develop chronic pain.