The good news is that most back pain will go away with minimal treatment. This type of pain is typically “acute,” meaning it comes on suddenly and lasts no more than a few weeks.

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and topical analgesics often provide relief.

B. Andrew Castro

However, if your pain lasts more than 12 weeks, it is characterized as “chronic.”

If you are experiencing persistent back pain, don’t ignore the problem. Chronic back pain can take a toll on your overall physical and emotional health, so it’s crucial that you seek professional care.

The first step will be for your provider to determine exactly what is causing your pain. I encourage people to pay attention to warning signs and what hurts, as it helps me diagnose the cause.

For example, if you’re experiencing leg pain in addition to low back pain, it could be a sign of a herniated disk. If you notice numbness in your arms or legs, it could be caused by spinal stenosis or a side effect of arthritis.

If you have persistent pain that is accompanied by fever or unexplained weight loss, follows an accident or blow to the back, or impacts bladder or bowel function, you should see a doctor immediately. While most chronic back pain is due to spinal issues, it’s always good to make sure it’s not due to anything else.