Should I rest or stay active with back pain?

While brief rest may help during acute episodes, prolonged bed rest can actually worsen back pain. Gentle movement, walking, and stretching are recommended to promote healing and prevent stiffness. Gradually returning to normal activities is best.

When should I be worried about back pain?

Seek immediate medical attention if back pain is accompanied by bowel or bladder dysfunction, progressive leg weakness, fever, or unexplained weight loss. These red flag symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition requiring urgent evaluation.

Can stress cause back pain?

Yes, emotional stress can contribute to back pain by causing muscle tension, particularly in the back and shoulders. Stress also lowers pain tolerance and can perpetuate chronic pain cycles. Stress management techniques and regular exercise can help break this cycle.

MusculoskeletalICD-10: M54.5Affects up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives

Back Pain

Also known as: Low Back Pain, Lumbago, Lumbar Pain, Chronic Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention and miss work, affecting up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives. It can range from a dull, constant ache to sudden, sharp pain and may result from muscle strains, disc problems, arthritis, or structural issues. Most episodes of acute back pain improve within a few weeks with self-care, but chronic back pain lasting more than 12 weeks may require more comprehensive treatment.

Symptoms

Aching or stiffness along the spine

Sharp, localized pain in the lower, middle, or upper back

Pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica)

Inability to stand up straight without pain

Decreased range of motion and flexibility

Muscle spasms

Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing

Causes

Muscle or ligament strain from heavy lifting or sudden movement
Herniated or bulging intervertebral discs
Degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis
Osteoarthritis of the spine
Osteoporosis leading to compression fractures
Poor posture and sedentary lifestyle

Risk Factors

Age (more common after age 30)
Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
Excess body weight
Occupations requiring heavy lifting or prolonged sitting
Psychological conditions (anxiety, depression)
Smoking

Diagnosis

Physical examination and patient history
X-rays to identify fractures or structural abnormalities
MRI to evaluate soft tissue, disc, and nerve involvement
CT scan for detailed bone imaging
Nerve conduction studies if radiculopathy is suspected

Treatment

Over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs, acetaminophen)
Physical therapy and targeted exercise programs
Heat and ice therapy
Muscle relaxants for acute spasm
Epidural steroid injections for severe radiculopathy
Surgery (discectomy, spinal fusion) for refractory cases

Prevention

Exercise regularly to strengthen core and back muscles
Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing
Lift heavy objects with your legs, not your back
Maintain a healthy weight
Use ergonomic furniture at your workstation

When to See a Doctor

Back pain persists for more than a few weeks without improvement
Pain radiates down one or both legs, especially below the knee
You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs
Back pain follows a fall, injury, or is accompanied by fever

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Arthritis

Musculoskeletal

Chronic Pain

Neurological

Bursitis

Musculoskeletal

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Musculoskeletal

Related from the Supplement Library

Turmeric

Strong

Herb · Reduces systemic inflammation (NF-κB pathway)

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Magnesium Glycinate

Strong

Mineral · Improves sleep quality and onset

Boswellia

Moderate

Herb · Anti-inflammatory (5-LOX inhibition)

These supplements have been studied in relation to Back Pain. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

Have questions about Back Pain?

Ask Mother Nature AI for personalized, evidence-based guidance.

Ask about Back Pain

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.