Typical symptoms
- Sudden, sharp lower back pain after a movement
- Muscle spasm, locked posture
- Difficulty standing up straight
- Pain peaks within 24 to 48 hours
SPINE CONDITION
Acute lumbago
An acute lumbago is a sudden, intense lower back attack triggered by an everyday movement. Most episodes are benign and settle within 4 to 6 weeks. A small minority hide a real spine problem — knowing the difference is what protects your recovery.
Recognising the symptoms
Lumbago is short, intense and frightening but rarely dangerous. Persisting symptoms, however, deserve a structured assessment.
When to consult
- Pain persisting beyond 7 to 10 days
- Recurring episodes within a few months
- Radiating pain into the leg
- Functional limitations at work or home
Red flags — emergency
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness in the saddle area
- Severe pain after trauma or fall
- Fever associated with the pain
Causes and diagnosis
Acute lumbago is most often a muscle, ligament or facet joint flare-up triggered by an awkward movement. In some cases the underlying cause is a herniated disc or a degenerative facet — invisible until the trigger event.
Imaging is not needed in the first weeks of a simple episode. It becomes essential if pain persists, radiates or recurs — exactly when Franchir steps in to fast-track an MRI and a specialist opinion.
Diagnostic process
- Detailed history of the trigger and previous episodes
- Neurological exam in Montréal
- MRI when episodes persist or recur
- Standing X-rays for instability suspicion
- Multidisciplinary review before any intervention
Treatments we offer
We always start with the least invasive option that delivers durable relief. Surgery is reserved for cases where conservative care has failed or red flags are present.
Stage 1
Acute management
Stay mobile, avoid prolonged bed rest, use NSAIDs and muscle relaxants short-term, apply heat. Most episodes settle within 4 to 6 weeks.
Stage 2
Targeted rehabilitation
Specific physiotherapy and motor control work to prevent recurrence. Adjustments to workstation and movement habits.
Stage 3
Specialist intervention
When attacks recur or a structural cause appears on MRI, Franchir routes you to a French spine surgeon for infiltration, mini-invasive treatment or surgery.
Surgical technology
Why choose Franchir
Treated in 4 to 8 weeks
Dedicated international slots reserved with our French partner surgeons — no 12 to 18 month waiting list.
3D navigation & robotics
Minimally invasive procedures, intra-operative imaging and the latest implants — often unavailable locally.
Fully bilingual pathway
Coordination from Montréal to France in French and English, with your home physician kept in the loop.
Transparent quote
Detailed pricing before any procedure, insurance support and no hidden fees.
Your journey, step by step
Step 1
Initial review
45-minute appointment with our clinical nurse specialist to review imaging, symptoms and history.
Step 2
Specialist file — 48 h
Your case is shared with the most relevant French spine surgeon. Treatment plan delivered within 48 hours.
Step 3
Travel & surgery
Concierge organises stay, transport and admission. Surgery takes place in a partner centre of excellence.
Step 4
Coordinated follow-up
Post-op recovery in Québec with shared follow-up between Franchir's team and your home physician.
Frequently asked questions
Not usually. For a first simple episode, the priority is symptomatic care and mobility. MRI becomes useful when pain persists past 4 to 6 weeks, radiates into a leg or comes back rapidly.
Check your eligibility
Send us your imaging and medical history. A specialist reviews your file and confirms whether surgery is the right option — for free.