Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor, affecting approximately 80% of adults at some point in their lives. It can range from a dull, constant ache to sudden, sharp pain. While most episodes resolve within a few weeks, chronic back pain (lasting more than 3 months) affects 20% of people and may require specialist evaluation.
Find a SpecialistSymptoms
- Aching or stiffness along the spine
- Sharp, localized pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back
- Pain that radiates from the back into the buttocks, legs, or feet
- Inability to stand straight without pain
- Decreased range of motion
- Muscle spasms
When to See a Doctor
See a spine specialist if back pain is severe or worsening, if it radiates down the legs with numbness or weakness, if it follows a fall or injury, if it is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, or if it does not improve after 4-6 weeks of conservative care.
Treatment Options
Physical therapy
Core strengthening, flexibility exercises, and posture correction. The most effective long-term treatment for most types of back pain.
Medications
NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and acetaminophen for acute episodes. Chronic back pain may require duloxetine or gabapentin.
Injections
Epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, or medial branch blocks. Target specific pain generators for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Surgery
For structural problems (herniated disc, stenosis, spondylolisthesis) that have not responded to 3-6 months of conservative care. Options include microdiscectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion.
Recovery Timeline
Acute back pain: most episodes resolve in 2-6 weeks. Chronic back pain: ongoing management with exercise and lifestyle modifications. Surgery recovery varies: microdiscectomy 2-6 weeks, fusion 3-6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is back pain serious?
Back pain is potentially serious if accompanied by leg weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control (emergency), unexplained weight loss, fever, or pain following a significant injury. These symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation.
What is the best treatment for chronic back pain?
The most effective approach for chronic back pain combines regular exercise (especially core strengthening), physical therapy, weight management, ergonomic improvements, and stress management. Injections and surgery are considered when conservative measures are insufficient.
Should I see an orthopaedic surgeon or chiropractor for back pain?
For most acute back pain, either can provide initial evaluation. See an orthopaedic spine surgeon if pain is accompanied by neurological symptoms (leg numbness, weakness), if conservative treatment has failed for 4-6 weeks, or if imaging shows a structural problem that may require surgical intervention.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.