Back pain - nonspecific

The majority of nonspecific back pain is probably caused by muscle strain. This usually responds to 2-5 days of rest and pain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents -- ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, etc.), followed by gradual return to activities. Medications may be needed to reduce muscle spasms.

Physical therapy is often prescribed to instruct the patient on proper body mechanics (such as good posture and lifting correctly) and to improve strength and flexibility in the spine, abdomen, and legs.

Surgery is not useful for the treatment of nonspecific back pain.

Most cases of nonspecific back pain resolve on their own or respond to treatment. It is helpful to sleep on a firm mattress, with a board under the mattress, or even on the floor. Heat or ice applied to the affected area may provide some relief.

Chronic pain can develop which can be debilitating and keep people out of work.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if there is significant pain that persists beyond a week.

Call your health care provider if you have been diagnosed with nonspecific back pain and the pain changes in intensity or quality. This is particularly important if the pain travels down the legs below the knee (suggesting pressure on the nerves as they leave the spinal cord), or if there is weakness or numbness in a leg.

If you develop progressive weakness, urinary incontinence or bowel incontinence, or if you have numbness in your groin or anal region, you should get to an emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911).

Images

Vertebra, thoracic (mid back)

Vertebra, lumbar (low back)

Spine supporting structures

Bones of the spine

Spinal stenosis

Vertebra, cervical (neck)

Review Date: 09/26/2006
Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Orthopedist, The Alpine Clinic, Littleton, NH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)