lowerback

The lower back, or lumbar region, is the area of the back between the bottom of the rib cage and the top of the pelvis. It includes the lumbar spine (five vertebrae L1–L5), intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, muscles, and nearby nerves. The lumbar region supports the upper body and allows bending and twisting.

Anatomy and function: The lumbar spine provides stability and mobility. Key muscles include the erector spinae, multifidus, quadratus lumborum, and psoas major. Nerves from the lumbar and sacral plexuses pass through this region and may radiate pain to the legs when irritated or compressed.

Common conditions and risk factors: Pain in this area is common and may arise from muscle strains, degenerative changes, disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis. Less common causes include infections, tumors, and inflammatory diseases. Risk factors include aging, heavy lifting, poor posture, obesity, smoking, and low physical activity.

Diagnosis and treatment: Evaluation relies on history and exam; imaging is used selectively for persistent or progressive symptoms or red flags. Treatments typically start with activity modification, physical therapy, and analgesics such as NSAIDs. Injections or surgical options may be considered for selected conditions, such as nerve compression or structural instability.

Prevention and prognosis: Regular exercise to strengthen core and back muscles, flexibility training, proper lifting techniques, and maintaining a healthy weight reduce risk. Most acute lower back pain improves with conservative care within weeks; chronic or progressive cases require ongoing management.