Back pain

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Lower back pain, also referred to as lumbago, affects 4 out of 5 people at some time in their lives. In most cases the pain lasts from a few days to a few weeks, but in some cases can last longer and reoccur. Back pain may come on quickly and be severe (acute) or develop gradually over time and cause longer-term problems (chronic).

The back is a complex structure consisting of: 24 bones (vertebrae) cushioned by shock absorbing discs (intervertebral discs), ligaments to hold vertebrae and discs together, tendons to connect muscles to vertebrae, spinal cord and nerves, and muscles.

The lower part of the back, the lumbar region, is composed of 5 vertebrae known as L1 to L5. This region bears the entire weight of the upper body (plus any extra weight carried) and is also under continual stress especially when bending, twisting, and lifting.

The complex structure of the lower back means that quite small amounts of damage to any of the structures of the back can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. Pain in the lower back is a symptom that there has been stress or damage to the ligaments, muscles, tendons or discs.

In most cases the back will heal itself but in severe and persistent cases it is essential to seek medical advice so that a correct diagnosis can be reached and appropriate treatment given.