Lumbar deformity is a condition in which the first sacral vertebra (S1) does not fuse with the second, so that it seems to be part of of the lumbar spine.
This article written by a physiotherapist explains this condition in detail, from symptoms to conservative and surgical treatment options.
What is lumbarization?
Lumbarization is a anatomical variation in which the first sacral vertebra (S1) has the characteristics of a lumbar vertebra.
This peculiarity, observed in approximately 5 to 10% of the population, transforms a classic lumbar spine of 5 vertebrae into a column of 6 “lumbar” vertebrae.
Good to know !
Conversely, the lumbar sacralization corresponds to the opposite phenomenon: the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) fuses with the sacrum, thus reducing the number of lumbar vertebrae to 4.
This developmental anomaly occurs very early in embryonic life, between the 6th and 8th week of pregnancy, when the future vertebrae form and differentiate.
It is not a disease strictly speaking, but rather a natural variation in human anatomy, comparable to having blue or brown eyes.
Lumbarization can be complete (the entire vertebra is transformed) or incomplete (only a part has these characteristics). In most cases, this anatomical peculiarity goes unnoticed and does not cause any health problems.
What are the causes of low back pain?
Lumbar spine injury results from a disruption of embryonic development which occurs during the formation of the spine.
Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, medical research has identified several contributing factors.
Embryonic development factors
The process of vertebrae formation is orchestrated by specialized genes called HOX genes, responsible for the spatial organization of the body. An alteration in their expression can lead to these anatomical variations.
Main influences identified
- Genetic factors : family predisposition observed in certain cases
- Hormonal disruptions during the formation of the fetal skeleton
- Maternal nutritional deficiencies in folic acid or vitamin B12
Environmental factors
The maternal environment during pregnancy may also play a role, including exposure to certain substances or specific nutritional deficiencies.
Important!
It is crucial to understand that lumbarization is no one's faultIt is a natural phenomenon that occurs spontaneously, without any action or negligence being able to influence it.
What are the symptoms of low back pain?
The majority of people with low back pain do not present no symptoms and discover this anatomical peculiarity by chance during radiological examinations carried out for other reasons.
Possible demonstrations
When symptoms appear, they are usually related to mechanical constraints additional stresses exerted on the lumbar spine.
The extra vertebra can change the distribution of forces and create areas of tension.
Most common symptoms
- Lower back pain : often located at the L5-S1 level
- Morning stiffness : difficulty getting up or sitting up
- Back fatigue after prolonged standing
- Radiation to the buttocks without neurological damage
When do symptoms appear?
Painful manifestations generally occur in adulthood, often triggered by aggravating factors such as postural stress, a sedentary lifestyle or repeated microtraumas.
Please note that low back pain alone does not systematically cause painOther factors such as physical condition, stress or postural habits play a determining role in the appearance of symptoms.
How to diagnose low back pain?
The diagnosis of low back pain is based mainly on themedical imaging, because this anatomical variation is not detectable during a simple clinical examination.
Reference examinations
La plain x-ray remains the first-line examination. It allows the morphology of the vertebrae to be clearly visualized and the lumbar characteristics of the first sacral vertebra to be identified.
- Face and profile X-rays of the lumbosacral spine
- Scanner if anatomical precision is required
- IRM only in case of associated neurological symptoms
Diagnostic criteria
Radiologists look for specific signs that confirm the presence of low back pain: vertebral morphology, presence of developed transverse processes, and changes in the sacroiliac joints.
Diagnosis usually does not require no invasive examination and can be posed quickly using standard imaging.
Treatment
The management of low back pain follows an approach progressive and conservativeThe goal is not to "correct" this anatomical variation, which is Impossible, but to relieve symptoms when they are present.
First-line treatments
The majority of cases respond favorably to the conservative treatments, thus avoiding the need for more serious interventions.
Standard therapeutic approach
- Specialized physiotherapy : strengthening of the deep back muscles
- Anti-inflammatories in acute phase (limited duration)
- Physiotherapy : heat, ultrasound, electrotherapy
- Osteopathy to improve spinal mobility
Advanced support
If symptoms persist despite successful treatment, more specialized therapeutic options may be considered.
Second-line treatments
- Epidural infiltrations under radiological control
- Mesotherapy for muscle contractures
- Acupuncture according to the patient's preferences
When to consider surgery?
The surgical intervention remains exceptional in low back pain. It is only considered in cases of severe neurological symptoms or complete failure of conservative treatments after several months of optimal management.
The most common surgical option is fusion of the first sacral vertebra (arthrodesis). However, success rates vary, and the decision to operate will have to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
How to live well with low back pain on a daily basis?
Having low back pain does not mean giving up an active and fulfilling life. On the contrary, keep your back moving remains the best preventive strategy.
The secret ?
Listen to your body without becoming hyper-vigilant. Lower back pain is compatible with a normal life, including sports!
The goal is to adopt some protective reflexes without falling into excessive restriction.
The fundamentals of everyday life
Adapting certain lifestyle habits can significantly reduce the risk of pain and maintain an optimal quality of life.
- Workstation ergonomics : screen at eye level, feet on the floor
- Body weight management : every kilo less relieves the spine
- Lifting techniques : bend your knees, keep your back straight
Recommended physical activities
Appropriate physical exercise is a fundamental pillar of treatment. It helps strengthen the stabilizing muscles of the spine and improve flexibility.
The most beneficial activities are those that harmoniously work the back muscles without creating excessive stress: swimming, aquagym, Pilates, or even Nordic walking.
Warning signs to watch for
Although low back pain is generally benign, some symptoms require prompt medical attention to rule out other associated conditions.
Consult quickly if:
- Pain radiating down the leg with tingling
- Loss of strength in a lower limb
- Urinary or rectal problems associated with back pain
- Night pains intense systematically waking up
Accessories and products against lower back
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are several products and accessories available on the market to relieve lower back pain related to sacralization lumbar.
In addition to treatments received by a therapist, many patients opt for back pain relief products and accessories because of their effectiveness on their pain.
Although we often observe beneficial effects linked to various accessories, we must realize that they have limits.
Mainly, the products available in the market do not address the cause of the herniated disc, and are especially useful for reducing pain in the short term.
They should therefore not replace comprehensive care including appropriate and progressive physical exercises.
Obviously, it is best to consult a healthcare professional so that they can suggest the best tools to use, as well as other treatments specific to your condition.
Among the best-known accessories are:
acupressure mat
- 🧘 𝐔𝐍 𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐐𝐔𝐄 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐓-𝐄𝐍-𝐔𝐍 – Wellax acupressure set leaves nothing to desire: For a complete and perfect wellness experience, you will receive a matching spiked cushion with our acupressure mat!
- 🧘 𝐋𝐈𝐁È𝐑𝐄 𝐃𝐄 𝐋𝐀 𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 – Our fakir mat stimulates the muscles, promotes circulation and can thus effectively relieve tension. This is how you fight annoying back and neck pain!
- 🧘 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐏𝐄 𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐄𝐑 – Whether after a training session, a match or a hard day work: The Wellax acupuncture mat is the ideal support for releasing daily tension. Pure relaxation for body and soul!
Last updated on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
Lumbar belt heated
- 【360° Powerful Support】The heavy lifting back brace, equipped with 4 stainless steel brackets and 2 springs, provides 362° strong support for the lower back and helps decompression of the spine. It prevents injuries from physical exertion, prolonged sitting or standing, housework and work.
- 【Pain Relief】This ergonomic back support strengthens the lumbar area and abdominal muscles, relieving fatigue, tension and injuries. It also helps alleviate pain related to herniated discs, sciatica and scoliosis.
- 【3 Heating Modes】The lower back pain brace has a heating pillow Adjustable via a controller, with 5 temperature levels (low, medium, high) to improve blood circulation and soothe back pain.
Last updated on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
Ergonomic back cushion
- ✨Premium Material: Our lumbar support cushion is filled with new temperature sensitive sponge, the lumbar support can adjust the contour of your back according to the temperature. The outer layer of lumbar cushion is made of high quality breathable fabric. The back support cushion fabric is comfortable and soft, not easy to fade. The parts of the lumbar cushion have been certified and are safe and harmless to human health.
- ✨High-quality design: The back support cushion for chair is ergonomic, and the pillow for back pain has a partitioned design, the memory foam back cushion can support your back curve and promote healthy posture. The lumbar support cushion for chair uses elastic straps to keep the lumbar support cushion for sofa firmly fixed on the seat.
- ✨Protect your health: With our car back support, you can better protect your spine, car back support office chair Helps relieve lower and middle back tension caused by prolonged sitting or driving. If you often experience back pain due to prolonged sitting, you should definitely try an office chair back cushion.
Last updated on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
massage gun
- DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE GUN – ALDOM Muscle Massage Gun for Athletes is ideal for relieving muscle pain, soreness and stiffness, promoting blood circulation and helps speed up warm-up and cool-down. It also helps restore the body faster and can be used as your percussion massager at the gym or sports club, is held with one hand and has a comfortable handle.
- 6 MASSAGE HEADS + 30 SPEED - The deep tissue massage gun comes with 6 different massage heads to help relieve sore muscles, 30 adjustable speed modes, Choose the speed and massage heads that best suits your needs. your needs (1 to 800 pulses per minute) to target different body parts and muscle groups, Integrate a percussive massage experience. Reduce muscle recovery time.
- SUPER QUIET AND POWERFUL MASSAGE GUN - Professional handheld percussion massager. Featuring a powerful, high-penetration motor, the deep tissue massager is designed to send waves of relaxation and relief throughout the body, and increase everyday mobility and flexibility with percussive therapy for pain relief joints and muscle pain and prolongs the duration of muscle massage
Last updated on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
What about natural remedies?
Like accessories and anti-back pain products, natural products and grandmother's remedies are very popular with people suffering from back pain.
Often, these remedies include anti-inflammatory properties to relieve various body pains.
Important!
It should be noted that most of these natural products are not scientifically proven. It is therefore important to speak to your doctor before using them, particularly to avoid any interactions with your medications.
Natural remedies that may relieve symptoms include:
Turmeric
Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers very powerful, turmeric is one of the most used plants in a culinary and therapeutic context. The composition of turmeric is essentially made of essential oils, vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, K) and trace elements. But it is to its composition rich in curcumin and curcuminoids that we owe them and calm skin of this spice.
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Ginger
In addition to the particular flavor it brings to cooking and its aphrodisiac properties, ginger is a root well known for its anti-inflammatory powers. THE gingerol gives it its anti-inflammatory action. It is an active component acting on the inflammatory pain related to chronic joint inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rheumatic diseases, etc. It has been proven that this active element is also effective in acting on the inflammation linked to arthritis and sciatica. Ginger also has other benefits thanks to its high potassium content and its richness in trace elements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium) and vitamins (provitamin and vitamin B9).
- 【Natural Ginger Foot Patches】: Natural Foot Detox Patch with Ginger and…
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Omega-3
Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in the functioning of our body. They are provided by food in three natural forms: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Beyond their action on the brain and the cardiovascular system, omega-3s prove to be very effective against inflammation. Indeed, they have the ability to act on the inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis by slowing down cartilage destruction, thus they reduce the intensity of osteoarthritis pain. Since sciatica is most often linked to inflammation secondary to a herniated disc, it can also respond to omega-3s if you consume them regularly.
- ✔ WHY NUTRAVITA OMEGA 3 FISH OIL? – Our Omega 3 Fish Oil is naturally sourced from the rich waters of the Peruvian coast. The oils are then distilled for increased purity to provide the highest levels of contaminant-free Omega 3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA, removing metals, PCBs and other toxins. At 2 capsules per daily serving, our supplement provides a maximum strength of 660 mg of EPA and 440 mg of DHA. You also get 240 capsules per bottle for a 4 month supply.
- ✔ WHY OMEGA 3? – Each recommended daily dose of our premium Omega 3 fish oil supplement provides high-potency essential fatty acids – Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) both contribute to the maintenance of various bodily functions, most importantly the normal functioning of the heart. DHA, on the other hand, supports the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision. All claims are substantiated by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority).
- ✔ 3RD PARTY LAB TESTED – Each ingredient is quality tested before the manufacturing process begins, each batch of our supplement undergoes rigorous quality testing. Our products have been third party tested for heavy metals and unwanted compounds by one of the best testing centers in Europe, the lab is Ukas accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards. The results are then analyzed and certified by another top lab.
Last updated on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
Lemon eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a plant most often used in the form of herbal tea or essential oil. She would have anti-inflammatory effects which give it the ability to act on the bone and joint pain in general and the pain of sciatica in particular.
- Eucalyptus Citriodora Essential Oil.
- 100% pure.
- Botanical name: eucalyptus citriodo.
Last updated on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
wintergreen
Wintergreen is a shrub from which a very interesting essential oil is extracted. It is one of the essential oils most used in aromatherapy. This oil, extracted from the shrub of the same name, is used in massage to relieve sciatica and act like a analgesic. Indeed, it provides a heating effect thanks to its ability toactivate blood circulation locally.
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- DIRECTIONS FOR USE: Refer to the instructions or ask your pharmacist for advice, This…
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FAQ (frequently asked questions)
- Can lower back pain worsen with age?
The malformation remains stable, but natural wear and tear of the discs can sometimes reveal symptoms after the age of 40.
- Are there any exercises to avoid?
Limit movements in lumbar hyperextension and heavy lifting. Your physiotherapist will guide you specifically.
- Can low back pain cause problems during pregnancy?
Pregnancy in a woman with low back pain requires a adapted monitoring but does not constitute a major risk. The obstetric team must be informed of this anatomical peculiarity in order to adapt monitoring and anticipate possible difficulties during delivery.
References
Articles and resources used in writing this article
My name is Anas Boukas and I am a physiotherapist. My mission ? Helping people who are suffering before their pain worsens and becomes chronic. I am also of the opinion that an educated patient greatly increases their chances of recovery. This is why I created Healthforall Group, a network of medical sites, in association with several health professionals.
My journey:
Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Montreal , Physiotherapist for CBI Health,
Physiotherapist for The International Physiotherapy Center