Low back pain is one of the top reasons that Americans see their doctor. Most Americans, moreover, experience back pain at one time during their life. Many back related injuries happen at work. But, you can change that. There are many things you can do to lower your chances of getting back pain.

I. Back to Basics
Step 1: What is low back pain?
Step 2: Know your back anatomy
Step 3: Causes of low back pain
Step 4: Are you at risk?
II. First Steps
Step 5: What to do when pain begins
Step 6: Seeing your doctor
Step 7: What tests might be ordered?
Step 8: When is low back pain a serious sign?
III. Taking Control: Treatment and Prevention
Step 9: Exercise and physical therapy
Step 10: Change your work habits
Step 11: Medications
Step 12: Other treatments

Learn More

Exercise: Too much, too little, just right

Drug treatment - NSAIDs

Drug treatment - COX-2 inhibitors

Drug treatment - muscle relaxants

Drug treatment - narcotics

Pain relief - acupuncture

Pain relief - chiropractic therapy

Pain relief - massage

Pain relief - osteopathy

Reducing stress may be a help

What is sciatica?

When is surgery necessary?


Helpful Handouts

Exercises to maintain back health

How to lift and bend

How to prevent low back pain

Preparing for your doctor visit


 

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Review Date: 6/29/2011
Reviewed By: Andrew W. Piasecki, MD, Camden Bone and Joint, LLC, Orthopaedic Surgery/Sports Medicine, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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