Pain in the lower (lumbar) region of the back. It may be muscular, skeletal or neurological in origin. A severe form associated with SCIATICA may be due to a prolapsed INTERVERTEBRAL DISC. Less severe forms may be caused by OSTEOARTHRITIS of the spine, a trapped nerve, inflammation of connective tissue, or may follow an old injury.

The treatment will depend upon the cause, but mild lumbago will usually respond to NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) and the application of warmth. Sufferers should remember to bend their knees, rather than their backs, when lifting objects. Moderate activity rather than bed rest is now recommended for most patients.