BACK PAIN

Back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the United States. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that may shoot down the leg. Sometimes it can come on suddenly – from an accident, a fall, or lifting something heavy, or it can develop slowly because of age-related degenerative changes in the spine. In some cases, inflammatory arthritis disorders or other medical conditions cause back pain.

Treatment varies depending on the cause and symptoms, and often there are several contributing factors. However, there are steps you can take to improve your health and lower your chance of developing chronic or long-lasting back pain.

TYPES OF BACK PAIN

  • Acute back pain happens suddenly and usually lasts a few days to a few weeks.

  • Subacute back pain can come on suddenly or over time and lasts 4 to 12 weeks.

  • Chronic back pain may come on quickly or slowly and lasts longer than 12 weeks and occurs daily.

SYMPTOMS OF BACK PAIN

Back pain can range from local pain in a specific spot to generalized pain spreading all over the back. Sometimes the pain radiates away from the back to other areas of your body, such as the buttocks, legs, or abdomen. The intensity of back pain varies for each person. Depending on the type, causes, and location of your back pain, you may experience:

  • Increasing pain with lifting and bending.

  • Worsening pain when resting, sitting, or standing.

  • Back pain that comes and goes.

  • Stiffness in the morning when awakening and lessened back pain with activity.

  • Pain that radiates away from the back into the buttocks, leg, or hip.

  • Numbness or weakness in your legs or feet.