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Back pain, especially in the lower back, is very common. It can be caused by injuries to the muscles or ligaments in the back. The pain usually improves with rest, physical therapy, and medication. Typically, symptoms improve within 2-3 weeks. You should see a doctor if the symptoms don’t improve or worsen.
Back pain symptoms
When to See a Doctor
Most back pain gradually improves with home treatment and self-care, usually resolving within a few weeks. You should see a doctor if your back pain:
- Lasts longer than 2-3 weeks
- Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest
- Radiates down one or both legs, especially if it goes below the knee
- Causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs
- Is accompanied by unexplained weight loss
In some cases, back pain can signal a serious problem. You should see a doctor immediately if your back pain:
- Causes problems with urinating or bowel movements
- Is accompanied by fever
- Occurs after a fall, a blow to the back, or other injuries
Causes of Back Pain
Common Causes
“Back pain can have many causes. Sometimes the cause isn’t clear, but it often gets better on its own. A common cause of back pain is an injury that causes muscle spasms.”
Other Causes
“Sometimes, other conditions such as a herniated disc or ankylosing spondylitis can cause back pain.
Less common causes, but ones that can signal serious problems, include fractures, cancer, or infections.”
What to Do If You Have Back Pain
Self-Help for Back Pain
Typically, back pain resolves on its own within about a week. You should try to stay as active as possible and continue with your normal activities. If the pain prevents you from moving, you should take pain relievers continuously to enable activity. Conventional advice to rest until the pain subsides has been proven incorrect.
You should do the following:
- Try to continue with your normal daily activities.
- Take anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (paracetamol is not recommended for back pain, but can be used in combination with other pain relievers).
- Apply a cold pack to reduce pain and swelling.
- Apply a hot pack to relieve joint stiffness or muscle spasms.
- Do light exercises and stretches in positions that help relieve back pain.
- Do not lie in bed for extended periods.
Treatment for Back Pain
What Treatments Are Available?
Beyond trying to maintain normal activity and using pain relievers, there are several other treatments available, depending on the cause of the pain. These include physical therapy, pain injections, and surgery.
Can Back Pain Be Prevented?
How to Avoid Back Pain
Back pain resulting from structural spinal diseases or problems cannot be prevented. However, injuries that cause back pain can be avoided.
To reduce your risk of back injury, you should:
- Maintain a normal weight: Excess body weight puts pressure on the spine and discs, increasing the chance of a herniated disc.
- Strengthen abdominal muscles: Pilates and other exercise programs strengthen the core muscles that support the spine, making the spine stronger and reducing the risk of easy injury.
- Lift objects correctly: To avoid injury, lift with your legs (not your back) and hold heavy objects close to your body. Try not to twist your body while lifting.
What is the Prognosis for People with Back Pain?
Prognosis Depends on the Cause of the Pain
Most people with back pain and sprains recover well and do not have long-term health problems, but many may experience a recurrence within a year.
Some people may experience chronic back pain that doesn’t improve after several weeks. Older adults with degenerative conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis may experience worsening symptoms over time. You should consult a doctor, as surgery or other treatments may be effective in helping reduce injuries and allowing patients to live pain-free.