Why is back pain a common problem?

Our bones and muscles lose flexibility and tone as we age, and they may no longer be able to support our backbones. A bone elevation puts pressure on the nearby nerves, causing pain signals to travel to the brain. Other causes of back pain include smoking, being overweight, having an abnormal posture, and getting less sleep.

When my back hurts, I try to keep my movements to a minimum. Is that all right?

Muscles weaken as a result of lying in bed, which slows recuperation. It is recommended that you move around. Even though the task is unpleasant or causes you pain, it does not mean it worsens your health. Building strength in the muscles surrounding the vertebrae, on the other hand, can assist you in resuming full exercise. Being bedridden might also lead to sentiments of dissatisfaction and discouragement, which can stifle your progress.

What is the distinction between a herniated disc, a slipped disc, a bulging disc, and a ruptured disc?

All four cases occur when discs wear out over time, and a portion of the disc protrudes between the bony parts of the vertebrae.

Is surgery the only truly effective treatment for back pain?

Most cases of low back pain improve within four to six weeks of onset. However, if nonsurgical treatments are ineffective, your doctor may consider recommending surgery. Acupuncture may be an option for people suffering from back pain.

Is there a link between a headache or pain in the back of the head and back pain?

Poor posture strains the muscles in the back of your head, upper back, neck, and jaw, resulting in pain in the head or back of your head.

Is it possible to get rid of back pain for good?

The majority of back pain resolves within a month. Everyone is unique, and back pain is a complicated condition. Many people's pain does not go away for several months, but only a few have persistent, severe pain requiring medical attention.

What structure in the back translates literally to "horse's tail?"

The cauda equina. The cauda equina is a section of the spinal cord named because it resembles a horse’s tail. Motor and sensory functions of the lower extremities and bladder are compromised when the nerve roots of the cauda equina are compressed. This is referred to as cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency resulting in incontinence/lack of self-control and paralysis.

Does osteoporosis affect the spine?

Osteoporosis can have severe reactions on the spine. Most of the time, osteoporosis often proceeds undetected. The first indication could be as serious as a bone fracture. These fractures usually occur in the most stressed areas of the body, such as the spine, wrists, and hips.

Back pain

Written By Dr. Swati MishraBDS

Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev Sharma

MBA, MBBS

Last updated on: 24 Feb 2026 | 11:21 AM (IST)

Also Known as Lumbago, Sciatica, Backache, Back trouble, and Slipped disk

Overview

Back pain is one of the most common pain complaints that almost everyone has had at some point in their lives. This pain is felt in the back of the body, stretching from the shoulders to the hips.

Back pain can be either acute or chronic. When pain strikes suddenly and lasts for a few days, it is referred to as "acute." Symptoms are typically sudden and transient. Chronic back pain lasts for more than three months and returns regularly, making daily activities difficult.

Increasing age is a significant risk factor for back pain. Factors like injuries, inactive lifestyle, poor posture, illness, strains, injuries, and fractures can contribute to back pain.

It can be prevented by lifestyle modifications, like being physically active, losing excess body weight, maintaining good posture, managing stress, and getting adequate good quality sleep.

Most cases of back pain can be managed by over the counter medications and topical ointments. However, in case of chronic back pain, it is important to seek medical treatment to avoid long-term complications.

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Overview

Key Facts

Symptoms

Causes

Risk factors

Diagnosis

Prevention

Specialist to visit

Treatment

Home-care

Complications

Alternatives therapies

Living with

FAQs

References