What Is Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common medical conditions in the United States and worldwide. In fact, studies estimate that up to 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. It is also a leading cause of missed workdays and reduced quality of life.

The spine plays a central role in supporting the body and enabling movement. It is divided into three main regions:

  • Cervical spine (neck)
  • Thoracic spine (mid and upper back)
  • Lumbar spine (lower back)

Back pain can result from a wide range of causes, including sudden injuries and long-term degenerative conditions. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options depend largely on the underlying cause of the pain.

Causes and Risk Factors for Back Pain

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing back pain, including:

  • People who perform manual or physically demanding labor
  • Older adults
  • Individuals who are overweight or obese
  • People with sedentary jobs or limited physical activity
  • Individuals with anxiety, depression, or chronic stress
  • Women

In many cases, back pain is considered nonspecific, meaning no single, clear cause can be identified. However, back pain may also be linked to specific conditions or injuries, including:

  • Cauda equina syndrome – severe compression of the lumbar spinal canal
  • Degenerative disc disease – breakdown of the discs between vertebrae
  • Facet joint arthropathy – arthritis affecting the joints connecting the vertebrae
  • Herniated disc – bulging or ruptured disc pressing on nerves or the spinal cord
  • Muscle strain – overstretching or tearing of back muscles
  • Occupational or psychological factors – work-related strain or stress-related muscle tension
  • Spinal tumors – cancerous growths on or near the spine
  • Spondylolisthesis – a vertebra slipping forward over another
  • Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal, commonly in the neck or lower back

Common Back Pain Symptoms

Back pain symptoms can vary widely and may include:

  • Dull or persistent aching
  • Sharp, shooting, or stabbing pain
  • Pain that radiates down an arm or leg
  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion

Back pain may limit activities such as twisting, bending, lifting, or raising an arm or leg. Seek immediate medical attention if back pain is accompanied by:

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Fever
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Sudden weakness or numbness

How Back Pain Is Diagnosed

Because back pain has many possible causes, diagnosis often involves several steps. A healthcare provider will typically begin with a medical history and physical exam, reviewing:

  • When symptoms began
  • Activities or injuries preceding the pain
  • Associated symptoms
  • Personal and family medical history
  • Additional diagnostic tools may include:
  • Blood tests to detect inflammation or infection
  • X-rays to evaluate bones, alignment, and bone spurs
  • MRI scans to assess soft tissues such as discs, nerves, cartilage, or tumors
  • CT scans to identify fractures, stenosis, or structural abnormalities

Back Pain Treatment Options

Treatment for back pain depends on the underlying cause, but most people experience significant improvement with conservative care. Common treatment options include:

  • Staying active and avoiding prolonged bed rest
  • Anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers
  • Heat therapy
  • Low-impact exercise, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine
  • Physical therapy or spinal manipulation
  • Acupuncture
  • Steroid injections
  • Stress management techniques
  • Workplace accommodations
  • Yoga or guided stretching

Surgical Treatment for Back Pain

Surgery is typically considered only when conservative treatments fail or when nerve compression is severe. Surgical options may include:

  • Microdiscectomy for herniated discs
  • Decompression laminectomy for spinal stenosis
  • Surgical stabilization for spondylolisthesis