What is back pain?
A person with back pain has discomfort in the back. Back pain is commonly caused by a back injury, irritation or inflammation of the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, disks or spinal cord. Back pain is less commonly caused by inflammation, or diseased organs, within the abdomen or chest. Acute lumbar strain is probably the most common cause of back pain.

What are the symptoms of back pain?
Symptoms depend on the underlying cause for the back pain. Common symptoms include back pain, back stiffness, and tenderness overlying the back muscles. Symptoms of a more serious underlying cause for back pain include severe back pain that shoots down the leg, leg numbness, leg weakness, groin numbness, and difficulty urinating. Other symptoms consistent with a serious condition include fainting, excessive sweating, high fever, abdominal pain, and chest pain.

How does the doctor treat back pain?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause for the back pain. Minor musculoskeletal back pain can be treated with rest, cold compresses, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain control. Other treatments may include physical therapy, narcotic pain medications, and ultrasound therapy.