What typically causes lower back pain (lumbago)?

Lower back pain, often referred to as lumbago, is commonly caused by a sprain of the back muscles due to improper posture. Poor posture can lead to the overloading of certain muscles and structures in the lower back, resulting in strains or sprains. This effectively disrupts the normal alignment and function of the spine, leading to discomfort and pain.

Maintaining good posture is essential for spinal health, as it minimizes stress on the back muscles and ligaments. Activities such as sitting or standing for prolonged periods with inadequate lumbar support, or performing movements that involve bending without proper body mechanics, can significantly increase the risk of developing lower back pain.

While heavy lifting can indeed cause injuries, and other factors such as infections or genetic predispositions may play roles in some cases, the correlation between poor posture and muscle strain represents a common and well-documented cause of lumbago. Thus, focusing on posture correction and ergonomic practices is crucial in both preventing and managing lower back pain.