O’Connell missed all of Ireland’s autumn internationals with a troublesome back, having overcome a knee injury, and will not feature for Munster in the rest of their 2012 fixtures.

The 33-year-old, who won the RBS 6 Nations Grand Slam with Ireland in 2009, has 85 caps to his name but missed the summer tour to New Zealand and has not played internationally since March.

A Munster official statement confirmed: "Paul O'Connell is undergoing treatment for a lower back complaint. 

“His treatment is progressing satisfactorily. He will see a specialist for further review in the New Year." 

O'Connell's last appearance came in mid October when he played for Munster in the Heineken Cup clash with Edinburgh at Thomond Park.

While the date of his return remains uncertain, O’Connell and Ireland coach Declan Kidney will be hoping he returns in time to take part in the 2013 RBS 6 Nations.