Back Pain

If you injure parts of your back, you may feel pain. You may not remember the injury - but your back does, and the pain is trying to tell you something.

Back pain is actually very common - about three in four adults will experience back pain during their lifetime, especially low back pain. Most back pain comes from sprains and strains caused by stressful movements, and with a bit of medical attention, those will get better. Occasionally, back pain requires more demanding medical help and possibly even surgery. But remember, even severe pain may not require severe treatment, so always check with your doctor.

Back pain may be acute or chronic. Acute pain lasts four to six weeks, but chronic pain is persistent, long-term pain - sometimes lasting throughout life. At times, people with chronic pain can also have episodes of acute pain.

Back pain comes in many forms. It may be sudden and sharp - or it may be dull. Pain may occur with movement, and it may even occur with coughing and sneezing. You may also have numbness in your arms or legs. (Leg symptoms are often referred to as sciatica caused by a pinched nerve.)

It's important to treat your back pain properly. Seek medical attention if your back pain persists - and seek immediate attention if you have any of the emergency signs listed in the box below.

Warning Signs You Need Help

• Pain is getting significantly worse
• Pain affects every day activities
• Severe symptoms
• Groin or leg weakness or numbness.
• Arm or hand weakness, tingling, or numbness
• Loss of bowel or bladder control