Overview: Back pain is common, but some symptoms signal something serious. Learn what’s normal, what’s a red flag, and why seeing your primary care provider matters.
Most of us have said, “Oh, my aching back” on days we do too much yardwork or sit too long. Back pain is common – about eight in 10 adults experience it at some time in their lives.
Some aches are normal and get better on their own. Other aches signal a problem more serious.
What's normal back pain?
These types of pain are usually nothing to worry about:
- Dull or achy pain after doing something strenuous—like lifting heavy objects, sports, or gardening. This typically improves in a few days with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Tightness after sitting too long -- like at your desk or watching TV. Simple stretching, better posture, and taking breaks will fix this.
- Pain that improves quickly—if it gets better within 72 hours of resting, applying ice, or taking anti-inflammatory medicine, it’s often just a strain or sprain.
Normal muscle strain is often noticeable in your lower back or buttocks only. The pain is usually sharp with movement but doesn’t spread to your arms or legs.
When can back pain be serious?
Some signs mean your back pain could be more than a common ache:
- Pain that won’t go away after a few weeks—especially if it has lasted longer than six weeks or keeps coming back.
- Sharp pain or sudden weakness in your legs—when pain shoots down your legs (like sciatica), or your legs feel weak or numb.
- Numbness in the groin or around your bottom, or trouble controlling your bladder or bowels—this could be an emergency called cauda equina syndrome.
- Fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss with back pain—might suggest infection or even cancer.
- Pain after a fall or accident, especially if you can’t stand or walk, or feel a fracture may be possible.
- Pain that worsens at night or while resting—normal pain usually eases with rest. If it gets worse lying down, this is a red flag.
Health professionals use these “red flag” signs to spot serious conditions early. About 1–5% of back pain cases point to problems like infections, fractures, spinal cord issues or tumors—and these need quick attention. Recognizing these signs can mean the difference between quick recovery and long-lasting problems.
What can I do?
- Start with self-care—rest, ice for new injuries or heat for stiffness, simple stretches and over-the-counter pain relief.
- Improve posture and movement—use proper lifting techniques, take breaks and set up your workspace correctly.
- Know your body—if your pain hasn't improved within two to three weeks, or you notice red-flag symptoms, schedule a check-up.
- Get emergency help—Don’t wait if you experience sudden leg weakness, loss of bladder/bowel control, high fever or pain after a serious fall. Go to Emergency Care or call 911.
Back pain is common—and often short-lived. But when it lasts, worsens or comes with warning signs, take the next step and schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. They can help determine if you need a referral to a spine specialist or physical therapist. Don’t wait—early care can make all the difference.
This blog was reviewed by a MercyOne provider.
