Lower Back Pain/Neck Pain

Many different parts of the spine can produce back pain, such as irritation to the large nerves that run down the legs and arms, irritation to small nerve roots inside the spine, strains to the large back muscles, or any injury to the disc, bones, joints or ligaments in the spine. When something goes wrong, back pain can take over our lives. Acute back pain comes on suddenly and its duration varies. It is usually considered chronic if it lasts for more than three months. Back pain can take on a wide variety of characteristics:

• The pain may be constant, intermittent, or only occur with certain positions or activities
• The pain may remain in one spot or refer or radiate to other areas
• It may be a dull ache, or a sharp or piercing or burning sensation
• The pain may be associated with others symptoms, such as weakness, numbness or tingling
• The problem may be in the neck or low back but may radiate into the leg or foot (sciatica), arm or hand.

Fortunately, most forms of back pain get better on their own. Approximately 50% of patients will experience relief within two weeks and 90% within three months. If the pain lasts for more than a few days, is getting worse, does not respond to simple remedies such as a short period of rest, using ice or heat and over-the-counter pain relievers, then it is usually advisable to see a physician

Lower back symptoms include hip, buttock, and/or leg pain.
Neck symptoms include shoulder and arm pain.