What Is Back Pain?

Back pain in the spine area can be any discomfort that affects your lower, middle, or upper back. 

How Does It Happen?

There are many causes of spine pain, including muscle strains, injury, and poor posture, as well as spinal conditions such as scoliosis, spinal stenosis, and herniated disc. 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms?

Depending on your particular condition, symptoms can be mild or severe. They include these:

• Back pain
• Pain that radiates from your lower back down your leg
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Numbness or weakness in your legs, feet, or arms 

How Is It Diagnosed?

Your doctor will give you a physical examination and listen to your description of symptoms. Then he or she may use imaging tests to diagnose the problem. These include x-ray, ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

How Is It Treated?

Your treatment will depend on your particular diagnosis. In many cases using over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers will help. You may also benefit from physical therapy, which will help you work on flexibility, strength, and range of motion. In some serious cases, you may require spine surgery. Learn more about BayCare's Spine Care Centers.

What Is the Prognosis?

Usually, spine pain can be managed through physical therapy and medication. If you require surgery, you may need several weeks to recover, and there is no guarantee that the spine pain will be completely alleviated.