Nonspecific Back Pain

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Nonspecific back pain refers to pain in the back that is not caused by a diagnosed disorder, such as a ruptured disc.

What is going on in the body?

Nearly everyone has back pain at some time. About 20% of people have some form of back pain each year. Back pain is the most common cause of disability for people under the age of 45. Back pain can be in different locations. Pain can be in the neck, upper back and shoulders, and the lower back. Often nonspecific back pain results from stresses on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine. Sometimes it is hard to find the cause of the pain.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

The exact cause of back pain may be hard to find. Pain can come from muscles, ligaments, nerves, discs, or bones. People who are inactive are especially at risk. Inactive people are not conditioned. They are prone to strains when they use their back. Other risk factors include the following:

  • advancing age
  • frequent or heavy lifting
  • overweight or obesity
  • poor posture
  • repetitive movements, including twisting
  • smoking

    • Symptoms & Signs

    What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

    Back pain can be unbearable. It can also be just a nagging annoyance. A healthcare provider should be seen if the pain is severe, lasts more than a few days, or keeps a person from daily activities.

    Specific symptoms include:

  • muscle spasms
  • pain in the lower or upper back
  • pain that radiates to the thighs, buttocks, or arms
  • tenderness when the back is touched

    • Diagnosis & Tests

    How is the condition diagnosed?

    Diagnosis of nonspecific back pain begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may order tests, including:

  • a CT scan
  • an MRI
  • X-rays

    • Prevention & Expectations

    What can be done to prevent the condition?

    Many times, nonspecific back pain can be prevented. Here are some helpful tips.

  • Exercise regularly.
  • Follow ergonomic principles in setting up workstations.
  • Practice good posture.
  • Stretch muscles before exercise.
  • Take frequent breaks from prolonged sitting or standing.
  • Use good lifting techniques.

    • What are the long-term effects of the condition?

    Nonspecific back pain can lead to chronic pain that interferes with personal and work activities.

    What are the risks to others?

    Nonspecific back pain is not contagious and poses no risk to others.

    Treatment & Monitoring

    What are the treatments for the condition?

    Nonspecific back pain usually goes away in a few days to a few weeks. Treatment usually includes resting the back for just a few days. Many people think that back pain means spending a long time in bed. The opposite is true. In general, it is best to begin moving and doing normal activities within a few days. Too much rest can cause the back to hurt more because muscles become weakened.

    Other treatments for back pain include:

  • antidepressants
  • corticosteroid injections
  • heat or ice
  • mild exercise that does not stress the back
  • muscle relaxants to relieve muscle spasms
  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen
  • prescription pain medicines for severe pain
  • stress management

    • Occasionally, physical therapy or chiropractic can be ordered to reduce pain and improve function.

    What are the side effects of the treatments?

    NSAIDs may cause stomach upset or allergic reaction. Other medicines may cause drowsiness, constipation, or allergic reaction.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    Generally, a person can expect to recover fairly quickly from nonspecific back pain. Learning about the back and how to prevent reinjury is important.

    How is the condition monitored?

    People with nonspecific back pain can expect to feel better within a few days to a few weeks. If healing does not occur within this time, the healthcare provider should be consulted. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the provider.

    Attribution

    Author:Terry Mason, MPH
    Date Written:
    Editor:Crist, Gayle P., MS, BA
    Edit Date:06/30/01
    Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed:05/30/01

    Sources

    Clinical Practice Guidelines, Acute Low Back Problems in Adults, US Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, Number 14, 1994

    Back Pain, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Patient Handout, 1997

    Fact Sheet on Back Pain, American College of Rheumatology, www.rheumatology.org