Back pain

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition
Causes
Risk factors
When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis
Treatments and drugs
Prevention
Alternative medicine

Definition

Back pain is a common complaint. Four out of five people in the United States will experience low back pain at least once during their lives. It's one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work.

On the bright side, you can prevent most back pain. If prevention fails, simple home treatment and proper body mechanics will often heal your back within a few weeks and keep it functional for the long haul. Surgery is rarely needed to treat back pain.

Causes