Lumbago, also known as low back pain, is one of the most widespread health problems worldwide. Studies show that up to 23% of adults suffer from chronic lumbago, with recurrence rates between 24% and 80% within a single year. Over a lifetime, as many as 84% of adults will experience it at some point.
This condition doesn’t only affect adults. One study found that about 1% of 12-year-olds and 5% of 15-year-olds reported lumbago. By late adolescence, nearly half had already experienced at least one episode. The prevalence rises steadily with age until it reaches adult levels.
At The Disc Chiropractic in Wheat Ridge, CO, I create individualized chiropractic care plans to address lumbago at its source. My goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent future flare-ups so patients can return to their lives without pain.
What Is Lumbago?
The word lumbago has been used for centuries to describe pain in the lower back. Today, most people and even many doctors simply say “lower back pain.” Both terms refer to the same problem, but lumbago often suggests back pain that is chronic or recurring.
Lumbago can appear suddenly after lifting, twisting, or sitting too long, or it can develop gradually over time. Acute lumbago typically lasts a few days to a few weeks and may improve with basic care.
Chronic lumbago is pain that lingers for three months or longer, often cycling through flare-ups and remissions.
The symptoms vary from person to person, but common ones include:
- Localized pain in the lower back
- Stiffness or tightness that limits movement
- Discomfort that may radiate into the hips, buttocks, or legs
Common Causes We See in Wheat Ridge, CO
Lumbago can develop for many different reasons. Sometimes it’s linked to sudden injury, while in other cases it’s the result of gradual wear and tear. These are the most common causes I see in my clinic.
Herniated or Bulging Disc
When a disc in the lumbar spine bulges or slips, it can press on nearby nerves. This often causes sharp lower back pain and often refers pain and numbness down into the leg.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the discs that cushion the spine can lose height and hydration. This degeneration reduces flexibility and puts more stress on the joints, leading to stiffness and chronic lumbago.
Facet Joint Syndrome
The facet joints in the lower back guide movement between the vertebrae. When these joints become arthritic or irritated, they restrict motion and irritate the surrounding nerves, causing pain that often worsens with standing or twisting.
Spinal Stenosis
In some patients, the spinal canal narrows and compresses the nerves inside it. This condition, called stenosis, often causes lumbago along with leg pain, weakness, or cramping when walking.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac joints connect the spine to the pelvis. If they become inflamed or misaligned, they can create pain in the lower back, hips, or buttocks, sometimes mimicking disc problems.
Muscular Strain
Overstretching or small tears in the muscles and ligaments of the lower back are one of the most common causes of acute lumbago. Heavy lifting, poor posture, or sudden awkward movements are often behind these injuries.
How We Treat Lumbago at The Disc Chiropractic
At The Disc Chiropractic, I use a combination of adjustments and other treatments, here is what i would usually recommend:
Chiropractic Adjustments
Precise and gentle thrust to the bones in the lumbar spine and pelvis takes the pressure off irritated nerves, helps subtly realign the affected portions of the lower back and reduces the stress that leads to recurring pain.
Spinal Decompression
We use the Triton DTS spinal decompression system. To apply controlled traction and negative pressure that creates space and allows nutrients back into an injured portion of the disc, thus relieving nerve compression.
Therapeutic Exercise
Strengthening the lower back and core are key for long-term relief. I guide patients through progressive maintenance programs that support the spine and its surrounding muscles to reduce the risk of flare-ups after treatment.
FAQs About Lumbago
What’s the difference between lumbago and lower back pain?
They are often used interchangeably. Lumbago is the traditional clinical term for pain in the lower back, while “lower back pain” is the more modern, everyday phrase. Both describe the same condition, though lumbago is often used when pain is persistent or recurring.
Can lumbago go away without treatment?
Sometimes mild cases improve with rest and short-term activity changes. But if the underlying cause is disc, joint, or nerve-related, the pain usually returns. Without treatment, lumbago often becomes a long-term problem instead of a short-term one.
How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery time depends on the severity and cause. Muscle strains may improve in a few weeks, while disc or joint problems may take several months to fully stabilize. With consistent chiropractic care and rehab, most patients notice steady improvement within six to twelve weeks.
What activities should I avoid if I have lumbago?
Heavy lifting, twisting, or sitting for long periods often make symptoms worse. Until the spine is more stable, it’s best to avoid these activities. Part of treatment includes teaching safer movement patterns that protect the lower back.
When should I see a chiropractor versus an orthopedic doctor for back pain?
If you’re experiencing stiffness, recurring pain, or discomfort that radiates into the hips or legs, a chiropractor can help identify and treat the source. An orthopedic doctor may be needed if there’s a fracture, severe neurological loss, or surgical concerns.
Take the First Step Toward Lasting Back Pain Relief
I’ve helped patients with all forms of lumbago, from simple muscle strains to complex disc and joint problems. What we do here is never one-size-fits-all. Every plan is built on your exam findings, your movement patterns, and your lifestyle demands.
If you’re ready for more than temporary relief, and want a plan that is focused, practical, and backed by proven methods, I’d be glad to help you take the next step.
Book your $97 First Visit today — includes a detailed consultation, full spinal and nerve evaluations, X-rays and the Doctor’s findings. Call: 720-573-4910