“Lumbago” is not a diagnosis, but the description of a severe, mostly stabbing pain of the spine with the surrounding muscles and can occur either in the lumbar or neck area. Normally, lumbago occurs very suddenly, for example following a jerky (rotational) movement or dislocation. It then immediately causes a massive sensation of pain, which is often accompanied by a restriction in the mobility of the affected area.
These extreme symptoms usually last for about 1 to 2 days. By then, the restriction of movement should at least have largely disappeared again and the pain should subside. This condition usually lasts another two days.
Thus, at the latest 4 days after the event, all complaints caused by the lumbago should have subsided more or less, but up to two weeks there may still be slight pain, which should improve steadily and no longer be severely impairing. If the symptoms of lumbago persist for a longer period of time, a doctor should be consulted, as it is possible that the symptoms are caused by a more serious disease such as a herniated disc in the lumbar spine or a tumor. Even if this is not the case, the doctor can be helpful regarding treatment options, as one should look to somehow contain such a lumbago so that it does not become chronic and the pain persists.
These general guidelines are of course not always applicable to everyone. On the one hand, they are only valid for mentally and physically basically healthy persons. If someone should suffer from worse underlying diseases, pain can persist longer or be stronger or be perceived as worse.
On the other hand, as is well known, every person is different. Especially age or physical condition can have a considerable effect on clinical pictures such as lumbago. So it can also happen that pain or movement restrictions last longer with some people, although “only” a normal lumbago is present. In this respect, however, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor if you have any doubts, as he or she can best assess the situation and plan further action.
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