Question:
An x-ray
and MRI scan didn't find the source of my lumbago.
An anatomical
lesion has not been seen on an MRI scan.
What
is the cause of my lumbago?
Lenny
Answer:
Dear
Lenny,
It may
be the result of stress.
Lumbago
is the term used to describe general lower back pain.
Lumbago
can be caused by a variety of issues from sudden strain to tumors.
The exact
cause of the lumbago/back pain is often unknown.
Strain
is a common cause of lower back pain; a common cause of strain is
an activity like heavy lifting without proper support.
People
who do heavy physical work are commonly affected.
Application
of hot or cold compresses can sometimes help.
Resting
in bed is helpful. The psoas position (lying on back with knees bent)
is often the most comfortable position.
Massage,
swimming exercises and physiotherapy are some treatments known to
help with this type of pain.
Lumbago
often goes only to come back again later. If this happens you should
consider a full rehabilitation and back education programmed.
The most
common type of axial back pain is "mechanical" and is characterized
as:
-Low
back pain that gets worse with certain activities (e.g. certain sports)
-Low back pain that gets worse with certain positions (e.g. sitting
for long periods)
-Low back pain that is relieved by rest
