About Back Pain and Self - Care Practices

Causes of Pain

The majority of people with low back pain symptoms don't know the exact reason for their pain. It can be frustrating not knowing what's causing your pain, but this doesn't mean that there's something serious going on. It's difficult to actually damage your spine. Back pain is common, but some likely reasons are:

  • strained muscles
  • sprained ligaments
  • tight joints
  • small tears in the disks

Should I see a doctor?

While low back pain happens in a majority of people, there are a few warning signs to watch out for.

Contact your doctor right away if you have:

  • weakness, numbness or tingling in your leg
  • pain spreading down your leg
  • new bladder or bowel problems
  • unexplained weight loss, fever, or stomach pain
  • constant or intense pain
  • had a fall, blow to your back or other injury
  • pain for the first time and you're over 50 years old

If you don't have any of these warning signs, chances are good that your back will start feeling better with some rest within a few days. If it doesn't improve at all, or if the pain gets worse, contact your doctor. Most people recover completely within a few weeks. If your back pain is still bothering you after a month, see your doctor.

Self-Care Practices