Noticed Bump On Lower Back. Could This Be A Herniation?

Posted on Thu, 27 Sep 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 Answered on

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi...Last night I discovered a slight welt/knot on my lower back (lumbar) towards the left side. It does not hurt to the touch and it does not feel like a bump. I did sprain my lower back when I was moving to my new place and have been putting heat in the area including using patches. Could this be a herniation of some sort or a simple knot that masseuse can cure?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (-5 hours later)

Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
A small swelling like a knot on the lower back with a history of injury in the area is likely to be due to a fibrozed hematoma. It is not likely to be due to some herniation as a hernia in the back is very rare and is seen only through some surgical scars.
It is likely to gradually disappear over 2-4 weeks without any medical intervention. Regular hot fomentation and a mild massage will help.
You can self monitor the area for any pain or tenderness or redness which indicates an infection and needs systemic antibiotics for treatment.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Please accept my answer in case you do not have further queries.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar