Back Pain

What is it?

Back pain affects approximately 80% of people at some point in their lives and is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Most acute low back pain resolves within 4–6 weeks with conservative care. Chronic back pain — lasting more than 12 weeks — requires more comprehensive evaluation. Causes range from muscle strain and disc herniation to osteoarthritis and, rarely, serious structural problems. The lumbar (lower) spine bears the most load and is the most common site of pain.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Back pain after a fall, accident, or trauma
• 2Pain radiating down one or both legs, especially below the knee
• 3Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet
• 4Loss of bladder or bowel control (seek emergency care immediately)
• 5Back pain with unexplained fever, weight loss, or night sweats
• 6Pain that is constant, severe, and does not improve with rest

What you can do

• ✓Stay active — bed rest beyond 1–2 days worsens most back pain
• ✓Apply ice for the first 48–72 hours, then switch to heat for muscle relaxation
• ✓Gentle stretching: knee-to-chest, cat-cow, and piriformis stretches
• ✓Strengthen your core with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming
• ✓Check your workstation ergonomics — monitor height, lumbar support, and seat position
• ✓Maintain a healthy weight to reduce load on the lumbar spine

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions