If your symptoms are severe or you still have them after 2 weeks of self-care, see your doctor. You may need stronger pain medicines, or you might benefit from physical therapy.

Having ongoing back pain can make you depressed. In turn, depression can have an effect on your level of pain and whether your back gets better. People with depression and Chronic Pain often benefit from both counseling and medicine. A cognitive-behavioral therapist can teach stress management and pain control skills. Antidepressant medicines may help too.

Only a few people with Low Back Pain need surgery. Surgery may help if you have a Herniated Disc or back pain along with symptoms of nerve damage, such as numbness in your legs. Even in these cases, most people will improve without surgery. Having surgery does not guarantee that all your pain will go away. Before you have surgery, it is a good idea to get a second opinion.

How can you prevent Low Back Pain from returning?

Once you have had Low Back Pain, you are likely to have it again. To help keep your back healthy and avoid further pain:

• Practice good posture when you sit, stand, and walk.
• Get regular, low-impact exercise. Walk, swim, or ride a stationary bike. Stretch before you exercise.
• Wear low-heeled shoes with good support.
• Sleep on your side. A medium-firm mattress may be easiest on your back.
• Watch your weight. Being too heavy, especially around your waist, puts extra stress on your back.
• Don't try to lift things that are too heavy for you. When you must lift, bend your knees and keep your back straight, keep the object you are lifting close to your belly button, and avoid lifting and twisting at the same time. See a picture of proper lifting technique.

If you sit or stand for long periods at work:

• Pay attention to your posture. Sit or stand up straight, with your shoulders back.
• Make sure your chair has good back support.
• Take regular breaks to walk around.

If your work involves a lot of bending, reaching, or lifting:

• Talk to your human resources department to see if there are other ways you can do your work.
• Don't depend on a "back belt" to protect your back. Studies have not shown these belts to be effective in reducing back injuries. The most they can do is to help remind you to use good techniques for lifting.

Frequently Asked Questions