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Lower Back Pain (Lumbago)

Medically Reviewed & Fact-CheckedBy MD, Emergency Medicine & Internal Medicine
Reviewed: 9/6/2026

Overview

Pain, muscle tension, or stiffness localized below the costal margin and above the inferior gluteal folds, with or without leg pain (sciatica). Over 85% of cases represent non-specific mechanical lumbosacral strain.

Possible Causes

  • Mechanical lumbar muscle or ligamentous strain
  • Lumbar herniated intervertebral disc (radiculopathy/sciatica)
  • Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis
  • Vertebral compression fracture (osteoporotic)
  • Spondylolisthesis or axial spondyloarthritis
  • Serious red flags: Spinal infection, epidural abscess, malignancy, Cauda Equina Syndrome

When to Seek Care

Seek EMERGENCY CARE IMMEDIATELY if back pain is accompanied by loss of bowel/bladder control, numbness around the groin/anus, or sudden severe weakness lifting your foot (foot drop). Routine back pain usually resolves with conservative care and physical therapy.

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.