lowback

The lower back, or low back, refers to the posterior region of the trunk between the lower rib cage and the pelvis. It includes the lumbar spine (L1–L5), the sacrum and coccyx, and the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues. The lumbar spine bears much of the body's weight and provides mobility and stability for bending, lifting, and twisting.

Anatomy in this region centers on the lumbar vertebrae, which are larger and designed for load bearing. Each vertebra is separated by an intervertebral disc and connected by facet joints that guide movement. The spinal canal contains nerve roots that exit the spinal column, including nerves that may travel into the lower limbs. Supporting structures include ligaments and a broad network of muscles, such as the erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, and psoas major, along with the abdominal wall and pelvic muscles, which collectively stabilize the trunk.

Common conditions affecting the low back include acute low back pain, often resulting from muscle or ligament strain, overuse, or nonspecific degeneration. Chronic low back pain persists beyond about 12 weeks. Other problems can involve lumbar disc herniation with nerve compression, sciatica, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or fractures in osteoporosis. Risk factors include age-related wear, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, heavy lifting, and smoking. Diagnosis typically relies on medical history and physical examination, with imaging or laboratory tests reserved for red flags or persistent symptoms.

Treatment ranges from conservative measures—rest as needed, activity modification, physical therapy, and NSAIDs or analgesics—to injections for inflammation and, in select cases, surgical interventions such as discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion. Prevention emphasizes core strengthening, flexibility, proper lifting, ergonomic work setups, and maintaining a healthy weight.