What is lumbar bursitis?
I have been experiencing frequent lower back pain recently, and after visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with lumbar synovitis. Now, I even find it difficult to bend over, and my range of motion is limited. I would like to know what exactly causes lumbar synovitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Lumbar bursitis, medically referred to as lumbar synovial cyst or lumbar synovial sac inflammation, is a relatively uncommon condition primarily involving the synovial sacs in the lumbar region. Numerous synovial sacs exist around the body's joints; these sac-like structures are filled with lubricating fluid that serves to reduce friction between bones, muscles, tendons, or bones, protecting the joints and facilitating smooth joint movement.
Inflammation of the synovial sacs in the lumbar area may be caused by various factors, including the following common causes:
1. Trauma or strain: Such as sudden force directly affecting the bursa or long-term repeated friction or compression in the same area, as seen in activities like cleaning or typing.
2. Infection: Secondary to septic arthritis, tuberculous arthritis, etc., leading to inflammatory reactions in the bursa.
3. Joint diseases: Commonly seen in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, joint damage and instability lead to bursitis.
When lumbar bursitis occurs, the following symptoms may be present:
1. Pain: Typically localized over the bursae on both sides of the lumbar spine, possibly accompanied by intermittent or persistent dull pain.
2. Tenderness: Touching the affected area causes increased pain.
3. Swelling: Caused by fluid accumulation within the bursa and tissue edema.
4. Limited movement: Muscle tension and joint stiffness affect daily activities.
