Quick Summary
Sudden lower back pain can make it hard to stand, bend or get comfortable. “Lumbago” simply means low back pain. We assess the episode, check for warning signs and help you find manageable movement and a plan to resume normal activity.
Understanding Acute Lumbago
Acute lumbago is a descriptive term for a recent episode of lower back pain. It does not identify a damaged disc or a particular muscle. Many episodes settle, but the cause and appropriate next steps depend on the history, examination and any accompanying symptoms.
How we assess your symptoms
We ask how the pain began and how it affects walking, sleep and everyday tasks. We screen for warning signs and examine movement gently. If pain relief advice is needed, a pharmacist or GP can help you choose options suited to your health.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
- A sudden ache, sharp pain or protective muscle spasm.
- Difficulty changing position, bending or straightening.
- Movement that feels limited by pain, with or without buttock discomfort.
An assessment helps guide your next step, based on your symptoms, health and goals.
What may contribute?
An episode may follow lifting, twisting, an unfamiliar activity or occur without a clear event. Pain intensity alone does not show the amount of tissue injury. An accident, fever or neurological symptoms changes the assessment and can require urgent care.
A treatment plan built around you
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Gentle hands-on care may help comfort if tolerated and clinically appropriate. It is offered alongside movement advice and exercise. Forceful treatment is not required simply because the back feels “locked”.
Is Shockwave Suitable?
Shockwave is not routinely recommended for acute lumbago. Your assessment will guide appropriate rehabilitation, symptom management and whether medical or specialist review is needed. We will explain why each proposed treatment fits your symptoms before you decide whether to proceed.
Targeted Exercise Programme
We start with comfortable changes of position and manageable activity, then rebuild ordinary tasks. Short periods of rest may help initially, but prolonged bed rest is generally unhelpful. The exercise plan is adjusted if symptoms change.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
- Go to A&E immediately for new numbness around your genitals or bottom, difficulty starting or controlling urine, loss of bowel control, or severe or worsening weakness in both legs. These can signal cauda equina compression. Call 999 if you need an ambulance.
- Seek urgent medical advice for rapidly worsening leg weakness, fever or feeling unwell with back pain, or significant pain after an injury. Contact your GP about unexplained weight loss, a cancer history or persistent night pain.
Your questions answered
Should I stay in bed until it is gone?
Usually not for prolonged periods. We help identify movements and activities you can tolerate, with a gradual return to normal routines. Severe or unusual symptoms should be assessed first.
Does a sudden spasm mean I slipped a disc?
No. Spasm is a symptom and can accompany several types of back pain. New leg numbness, weakness or bladder or bowel changes need assessment rather than guessing from the spasm alone.
Which appointment should I book?
Choose a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment for new, persistent or uncertain symptoms. We will assess what is limiting you, explain the options and agree the next steps. If you already have a diagnosis, bring any relevant scan report or specialist advice.
Visit J&J Therapy on the ground floor of CI Tower, New Malden. Book an assessment or call our reception team on 07935 869938 if you are unsure which service to choose.
Related conditions
Back spasm or strain · Non-specific low back pain
Sources and further reading
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Information updated 15 October 2026. General information to support informed choices; it is not a diagnosis or a personalised treatment plan. Suitability and any need for referral are assessed individually. Seek urgent medical help for the warning signs listed above.