Back pain is a problem for most people at some point during their lives. Back pain refers to pain anywhere from the area of the neck to the tailbone (coccyx). The back includes:

• The bones of the spine ( vertebrae ).
• The joints that guide the direction of the movement of the spine.
• The discs that separate the vertebrae and absorb shock as a person moves.
• The muscles and ligaments that hold the spine together.

Back pain may be caused by an injury to one or more of these structures, or it may have nothing to do with an injury. Some people are more likely to develop back pain and injury than others. Home treatment will often help relieve back pain caused by minor injuries. See an illustration of the spine or the discs of the spine .

Back injuries are the most common cause of back pain. Common back injuries include:

• Overuse injuries . You may not remember a specific injury, especially if your symptoms began gradually or during everyday activities. These injuries occur most often from improper movement or posture while lifting , standing and walking , sitting , or even while sleeping . Symptoms can include pain, muscle spasms, and stiffness. The pain often goes away within 4 weeks without any treatment. Home treatment can help speed healing, relieve pain, and prevent reinjury.
• A sudden (acute) injury , such as a sprain or strain . This may occur from tripping, falling a short distance, or excessive twisting of the spine. Severe back injuries may occur from car accidents, falls from significant heights, direct blows to the back or the top of the head, a high-energy fall onto the buttocks, or a penetrating injury, such as a stab wound.
  • Discs may tear or rupture. If the tear is large enough, the jellylike material inside the disc may leak out (herniate) and press against a nerve. See an illustration of a herniated disc or pressure on a nerve root .
  • A fracture or dislocation of the spine can cause permanent paralysis. It is important to immobilize and transport the injured person correctly to reduce the risk of permanent paralysis.

Injury is not the only cause of back pain. Back pain may be caused by other health problems.

• Conditions that weaken the spine, such as osteoarthritis , osteoporosis , spinal stenosis , or Paget's disease . These conditions are most common in older adults. In rare cases, tumors or infections can develop in or around the spine.
• Medical conditions can cause pain to spread to the back from other parts of the body (referred pain). Many health problems that can cause back pain have nothing to do with the bones, joints, muscles, or ligaments of the back.
• Spinal deformities such as scoliosis , kyphosis (Scheuermann's disease) , and spondylolisthesis can cause back pain.

Low back pain may occur in children and teenagers , but children and teens are less likely to see a health professional for low back pain.

Treatment for back pain depends on the cause and severity of symptoms as well as a person's age and overall health. Treatment may include first aid measures, medication, physical therapy, manipulative therapy (such as chiropractic), and, in some cases, surgery.

Review the Emergencies and Check Your Symptoms sections to determine if and when you need to see a health professional.

Emergencies

• Topic Overview
• Emergencies
• Check your Symptoms
• Home Treatment
• Prevention