Physical Therapist Questions Low Back Pain

Why is my lower back swollen?

I have a bulge and swelling in my lower back which hurts a lot whenever i sit or lie down for a long time. Why does this happen? The doctor says it is not anything serious. What could this possibly be?

5 Answers

Swelling and pain is a sign of inflammation. I am not sure what is the nature of your bulge. You might want to follow this up with a doctor. In the mean time, try applying ice on the area and see if it helps.
It could be a cyst or fat deposition,some times after acute trauma if you have injuried your lower back .may be anther doctor opinion will help.
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It could be a cyst, or an inflammation. I think you need a second opinion to see what is that. Also, you should monitor this swelling if it gets any bigger or any change in the skin color around. That could be more serious.
My first thought is that it might be a tumor. Since my training doesn't qualify me to determine that, I would definitely see a doctor that takes your concerns seriously.
The painful bulge may be due to muscle spasm. As you suggested here, you are getting pain with sitting as well as with laying could be due to SI joint dysfunction. The best option for you in this situation would be to consult a physical therapist.