Low Back Pain
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for a primary care visit. Many cases improve with time and targeted self-care.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include aching, stiffness, muscle spasm, or pain that travels into the buttock or leg.
Causes and risk
Strain, poor mechanics, disc problems, arthritis, and prolonged sitting are common contributors.
How it is evaluated
We review how the pain started, whether it radiates, and whether there are red flags such as weakness or bowel or bladder changes.
Treatment
Treatment can include activity modification, exercise, physical therapy, short-term medicine, and imaging only when needed.