Nonspecific back pain
Key points
- Nonspecific back pain refers to pain in the back due to an unknown cause.
- Back pain is one of the most common complaints treated by physicians.
- A physical examination focused on the back, the abdomen, and the extremities may confirm back pain or muscle spasm, but the examination does not reveal a specific cause (such as a herniated disk) or any neurological problem (such as weakness or change in sensation).
- The majority of nonspecific back pain is probably caused by muscle strain.
Alternative names
Back pain - nonspecific
Definition
Nonspecific back pain refers to pain in the back due to an unknown cause.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Back pain is one of the most common complaints treated by physicians. Nearly 4 out of 5 people will experience back pain at some time in their life. The vast majority of these cases do not have a definable cause for their pain. This is an important, common problem and the annual cost of treating this pain runs in the tens of billions of dollars.
Back pain can develop in association with a number of causes, including muscle strain, injury to the back, overuse, muscle disorders, pressure on a nerve root, poor posture, and many others. Pregnant women, smokers, construction workers, and people who perform repetitive lifting all have increased risk of back pain. (See also low back pain).
Symptoms
- Low back pain
- Pain in any part of the back
- Pain may radiate to the buttocks or upper leg(s)
Signs and tests
A physical examination focused on the back, the abdomen, and the extremities may confirm back pain or muscle spasm, but the examination does not reveal a specific cause (such as a herniated disk) or any neurological problem (such as weakness or change in sensation).
X-rays of the spine are usually normal. Further work-up may include a CT scan or MRI of the spine.
Treatment
The majority of nonspecific back pain is probably caused by muscle strain. This usually responds to 2-5 days of rest and pain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents - ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, etc.), followed by gradual return to activities. Medications may be needed to reduce muscle spasms.
Physical therapy is often prescribed to instruct the patient on proper body mechanics (such as good posture and lifting correctly) and to improve strength and flexibility in the spine, abdomen, and legs.
Surgery is not useful for the treatment of nonspecific back pain.
Expectations (prognosis)
Most cases of nonspecific back pain resolve on their own or respond to treatment. It is helpful to sleep on a firm mattress, with a board under the mattress, or even on the floor. Heat or ice applied to the affected area may provide some relief.
Complications
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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