Lower Back
Back pain is one of the most common medical problems, effecting 8 out of 10 people at some point during their lives. Back pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain. Acute back pain comes on suddenly and can last a few days to a few weeks. Back pain is called chronic if it last longer than 3 months. Back pain can be present in the low back, or it can radiate into the buttock, hip, knee, upper and lower leg, and ankle and foot. Back pain can affect your ability to perform simple, everyday tasks such as sitting, walking, sleeping, lifting, and bending, coughing, and sneezing. Most back pain can resolve on its own, though it may take some time. Resting can help, however, staying in bed longer than 1 or 2 days is often not helpful in resolving your symptoms and can lead to deconditioning and further functional impairment. If your back pain is severe, or does not improve after 3 days, a proper assessment and diagnosis are needed. Physical therapists can asses your condition, create a treatment plan and recommend a home exercise and prevention program.