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Is your back hurting? This may be why.
Back pain is the leading cause of disability around the world and is one of the most common reasons people go to a doctor. In fact, almost everyone will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Some back pain is acute, meaning it is temporary and will get better after a few days or weeks. But some people experience chronic back pain—pain that is always there or that comes and goes.
When it comes to your back, there are many different things that can cause it to hurt. There are also many different symptoms you may have. Some people only experience dull aching or minor stiffness when moving. Others may have pain that is severe, describing it as a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation. They may also experience a loss of mobility and functionality. Sometimes the pain is felt in a specific spot or it may be spread all over your back. It may even be felt somewhere other than your back, such as in the buttocks or legs, causing aching, tingling and numbness.
“Back pain can be caused by unexpected factors such as a change in weather and doing an excessive amount of bending and twisting while cleaning up a yard or doing house work,” said Dr. Gary Alegre, Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon affiliated with St. Joseph’s Medical Center. “It's important to be aware of the increased risks to spine health during these times."
What are the most common causes of back pain?
It’s no wonder that back pain is one of the most common medical problems. Your back is made up of an intricate network of structures that span from the base of your head to your tailbone. This includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, discs, vertebrae and your spinal cord. Disrupting any of these structures can cause pain and other symptoms. Common causes of back pain include:
What increases your risk of developing back pain?
There are a number of factors that may increase your risk of developing back pain, but there is no way to guarantee your back will never hurt. Risk factors include age, overweight/obesity, poor fitness level, weak muscles, stress, pregnancy and hereditary conditions. Some job and recreational activities may also increase your risk.
When should you see a doctor about back pain?
Most back pain gradually improves within a few days to a few weeks and doesn’t require medical care. Resting, stretching, icing, applying heat or taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are home care remedies that often provide relief. If you experience the following symptoms, however, it may be time to see a doctor:
For more information on St. Joseph’s orthopaedic services or to find a doctor, please visit dignityhealth.org/stockton/ortho.
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Date Last Reviewed: May 17, 2023
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD
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