What is lower back pain?
A person with lower back pain has discomfort in the lower back: from the bottom of the rib cage to the tailbone. Back pain may be caused by an injury, irritation, or inflammation of the structures of the lower back, or abdomen. Common causes for lower back pain include back strain and sciatica.

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

How does the doctor treat lower back pain?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause for the lower back pain. Mild musculoskeletal back pain can be treated with rest, cold compresses, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain. Additional treatment may include physical therapy, narcotic pain medications, and ultrasound therapy. Treatment for severe causes of lower back pain may include antibiotics or surgery.