Back pain is a common problem that affects most people at some point in their life.

It may be triggered by bad posture while sitting or standing, bending awkwardly, or lifting incorrectly. Its not generally caused by a serious condition. Find out more about thecauses of back pain.

In most cases, back pain will improve in a few weeks or months, although some people experience long-term pain or pain that keeps coming back.

Backache is most common in the lower back ('lumbago'), although it can be felt anywhere along your spine, from your neck down to your hips. Read information onneck pain andshoulder pain, which are covered separately.

Sometimes, back pain can be caused by an injury or disease, such as:

The rest of this information will focus on back pain that doesnt have an obvious cause. Doctors call this non-specific back pain.

Most cases of back pain get better on their own and you may not need to see a doctor.

If youve only had back pain for a few days or weeks, the following advice may help relieve your symptoms and speed up your recovery:

Although it can be difficult to be cheerful or optimistic if you are in pain, its important to stay positive because this can help you recover faster.

Read more about treatments for short-term back pain.

Original post:
Back pain - NHS Choices

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