BACK PAIN

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical help or miss work. Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide.

Fortunately, measures can help prevent or relieve most back pain episodes, especially for people younger than age 60. If prevention fails, simple home treatment and using the body correctly often will heal the back within a few weeks.

Symptoms

Back pain can range from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation. Also, the pain can radiate down a leg. Bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking can make it worse.

When to see a doctor

Most back pain gradually improves with home treatment and self-care, usually within a few weeks. Contact your health care provider for back pain that:

• Lasts longer than a few weeks.
• Is severe and doesn't improve with rest.
• Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain goes below the knee.
• Causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs.
• Is paired with unexplained weight loss.

In rare cases, back pain can signal a serious medical problem. Seek immediate care for back pain that:

• Causes new bowel or bladder problems.
• Is accompanied by a fever.
• Follows a fall, blow to the back or other injury.