Surgery·Orthopaedics
Back Pain
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Back pain is a common discomfort or ache in the area of your spine, from the neck down to the tailbone. It can be a short-term problem that goes away on its own or a long-term condition that needs care.
Key facts
- Most back pain gets better within a few weeks without special treatment.
- Back pain can affect people of all ages, from children to older adults.
- Simple self-care, like staying active and using gentle heat, often helps relieve back pain.
Yes, back pain is very common. Most people will experience it at some point in their lives. It is one of the leading reasons people visit their doctor.
Back pain can affect anyone, but it is more common in adults between 30 and 50 years old. It also happens more often in people who have physically demanding jobs, sit for long periods, or have a family history of back problems.