Overview
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people see a doctor, usually coming from strained muscles, poor posture, heavy lifting or long hours sitting. Most episodes settle within a few weeks with rest, gentle movement and simple painkillers. A smaller number are caused by a slipped disc or nerve pressure and need proper assessment, especially when the pain spreads down a leg.
Symptoms
- Aching or stiffness across the lower back
- Pain that worsens with bending, lifting or sitting for long
- Muscle spasm or tightness
- Pain spreading into the buttock or leg in some cases
- Difficulty standing straight after rest
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if back pain lasts more than a few weeks, follows an injury, or comes with leg weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Loss of control over urine or stools, numbness around the private parts, or sudden severe leg weakness — go to a hospital immediately
Causes
Muscle or ligament strain, poor lifting technique, weak core muscles, prolonged sitting, being overweight, and age-related wear of the spine. A slipped (herniated) disc can press on a nerve and cause leg pain.