Lumbar Hernia The Rare Back Hernia and Its Causes
The lumbar hernia is a rare type occurring in the lower back. Learn its causes, symptoms, and how it differs from ordinary back pain.
In this article
The lumbar hernia is among the rare types occurring in the lower back region, where tissue pushes through a weak point in the posterior abdominal wall. It's often confused with ordinary back pain or spinal problems, delaying its diagnosis. Understanding its nature, different from anterior what is a hernia and its types, helps detect it.
Causes of Lumbar Hernia
Congenital Causes
Some are born with a weak point in the posterior abdominal wall that later develops into a lumbar hernia.
Injuries and Trauma
Lower back injuries or accidents may cause a tear in the posterior wall allowing herniation.
Previous Surgery
Some kidney or back surgeries may leave a weak area that becomes an incisional lumbar hernia.
Ageing
Weakening of muscles and tissues with age reduces support of the posterior wall.
How Does It Differ from Ordinary Back Pain?
The main difference is that the lumbar hernia is often accompanied by a bulge or protrusion in the lower back or side, increasing with standing and exertion and decreasing when lying down — which doesn't happen in muscular back pain or vertebral problems. But in some cases the bulge is slight, being misdiagnosed as ordinary back pain for a long time.
If you have a bulge in the lower back or side that changes with body position and exertion, especially after a previous injury or surgery in the area, consult a doctor to assess the possibility of a lumbar hernia.
How Is the Lumbar Hernia Treated?
Treatment is surgical, aiming to return the tissue and strengthen the posterior abdominal wall, often using surgical mesh. Repair may be challenging due to the area's nature, so it needs surgical expertise. It can be performed open or laparoscopic hernia surgery depending on the hernia's size and location. Early assessment makes surgery simpler.
"The lumbar hernia is among the types needing an expert eye to distinguish from common back pain. Many patients suffer long before correct diagnosis, and the key is noticing the bulge that changes with position."
Dr. Mohamed EsmatFrequently Asked Questions
Does a lumbar hernia cause back pain?
Yes it may cause lower back pain, but it's usually accompanied by a bulge that changes with position, distinguishing it from muscular back pain.
Is a lumbar hernia dangerous?
Its strangulation risk is lower than femoral hernia, but it tends to enlarge over time and repair is advised to avoid complications.
How is a lumbar hernia diagnosed?
By clinical examination and often CT imaging that confirms the location and precisely determines the hernia's size and contents.
Have a Bulge or Pain in Your Lower Back?
Book an assessment with Dr. Mohamed Esmat to accurately distinguish between back pain and a lumbar hernia.
Dr. Mohamed Esmat
Consultant hernia and abdominal wall surgeon, PhD in General Surgery and founder of Hernia Core — the first Arab clinics dedicated to hernia surgery. 15+ years of experience and over 5,000 successful cases.
This article is for general medical awareness only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. To assess your case, please book with Dr. Mohamed Esmat. Last reviewed: August 9, 2026.
