Nonspecific back pain

Alternative names:

back pain - nonspecific

Treatment:

Most back problems will heal naturally. Rest and pain medications (analgesics) may be necessary. Medications may be needed to reduce muscle spasms.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most cases of nonspecific back pain will resolve without other interventions. It is helpful to sleep on a very firm mattress (with a bed board under the mattress), or on a waterbed, or even on the floor. Heat or ice applied to the affected area may provide some relief.

Complications:

Chronic pain can develop.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if there is significant pain that persists beyond a week.

Call your health care provider if you have been diagnosed with nonspecific back pain, and the pain changes in intensity or quality; particularly if the pain travels down the legs below the knee (which suggests pressure on the nerves as they leave the spinal cord), or if there is weakness or numbness in a leg.