​The spine is made up of a network of structures, vertebrae, discs, ligaments, muscles and nerves. The lumbar spine withstands a great amount of strain during movement. A lumbar spine injury may take the form of a muscle strain; a disc injury or a lumbar sprain may occur in which the ligaments are torn and the joint is injured. A lumbar spine injury leads to low back pain and loss of function.

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Common symptoms of a lumbar sprain or strain

• Pain in the lower back and upper buttocks or legs.
• Low back muscle spasm. 
• Pain with activities and generally goes away with rest.

Factors that contribute to lumbar spine injuries

• Sudden forceful movement. 
• Lifting a heavy object improperly. 
• Twisting the back. 
• A ruptured disc.

Other factors that contribute to lumbar spine injuries

• Lack of conditioning. This can cause the back to 'give out' during physical exercise or work activities. 
• Obesity. Excess weight leads to poor posture which puts strain on the muscles, causing injury.