What is a Back ache ?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical help or miss work. Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide.Lower back pain usually gets better with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. After a few days of rest, you can start to get back to your normal activities.

  • twisting
  • coughing or sneezing
  • muscle tension
  • over-stretching
  • bending awkwardly or for long periods
  • pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying something
  • standing or sitting for long periods

Types of Back Pain

  • Acute back pain happens suddenly and usually lasts a few days to a few weeks.
  • Subacute back pain can come on suddenly or over time and lasts 4 to 12 weeks.
  • Chronic back pain may come on quickly or slowly and lasts longer than 12 weeks.

Risk factors

  • occupational activities
  • pregnancy
  • a sedentary lifestyle
  • poor physical fitness
  • older age
  •  excess weight
  • smoking
  • strenuous physical exercise or work, especially if done incorrectly
  • genetic factors