Back Pain - Causes, Conditions & When to See a Doctor

Severity: Moderate4 related conditions

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical help. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain and can affect anyone at any age.

Overview

Back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. About 80% of adults experience back pain at some point in their lives. Most cases improve within a few weeks with self-care, but some require medical attention.

When to See a Doctor for Back Pain

See a doctor if back pain persists for more than a few weeks, is severe or worsening, radiates down a leg, causes weakness or numbness in the legs, or is accompanied by fever, unexplained weight loss, or bladder/bowel problems.

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Related Symptoms

People experiencing back pain may also notice these symptoms:

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