What causes sudden lower back pain and inability to straighten the waist when bending over, and what should be done?

Generally, sudden lower back pain that makes it difficult to stand straight when bending over may be related to factors such as muscle strain, muscle fatigue, lumbar disc herniation, lumbar facet joint dysfunction, or spondylolisthesis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Muscle Strain

Sudden improper force or incorrect posture while bending over may cause strain in the lower back muscles or tendons. It is recommended to rest appropriately and avoid repeating movements that could lead to re-injury.

2. Muscle Fatigue

Prolonged maintenance of the same posture or overuse of the lower back muscles may lead to muscle fatigue, resulting in sudden lower back pain and difficulty standing upright when bending over. It is advised to change positions regularly and pay attention to rest.

3. Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar intervertebral discs are located between the vertebrae and serve as shock absorbers and support structures. When bending over, the annulus fibrosus of the disc may rupture, causing the nucleus pulposus to protrude and compress nearby nerve roots, leading to back pain and an inability to stand straight. Under medical guidance, medications such as Gentongping Granules, Yaotongning Capsules, or Duhuo Jisheng Pills may be used for treatment.

4. Lumbar Facet Joint Dysfunction

When bending over, the small facet joints in the lumbar spine may become misaligned or compressed, causing pain and preventing the ability to straighten the back. This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as back stiffness or joint clicking sounds. Physical therapies such as manual manipulation, traction, and physical rehabilitation are recommended to restore normal joint position and function. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications such as Indomethacin Tablets, Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules, or Chlorzoxazone Tablets may be taken according to medical advice.

5. Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis refers to the displacement of one lumbar vertebral body relative to the vertebra below, leading to spinal canal narrowing and compression of nerve roots. This can cause lower back pain when bending over and result in an inability to stand straight. Symptoms may include numbness, muscle weakness, and abnormal gait. In severe cases, surgical intervention such as spinal fusion or foraminotomy may be required to restore spinal stability.

Patients are advised to avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods and to ensure adequate rest, which may help alleviate symptoms.