Back pain is pain in any region of the back. It is divided into neck pain (cervical), middle back pain (thoracic), lower back pain(lumbar) or coccydynia (tailbone or sacral pain) based on the segment affected .The lumbar area is the most common area for pain, as it supports most of the weight in the upper body.

Episodes of back pain may be acute, sub-acute, or chronic depending on the duration. The pain may be characterised as a dull ache, shooting or piercing pain, or a burning sensation. Discomfort can radiate into the arms and hands as well as the legs or feet, and may include numbness,or weakness in the legs and arms.

Back pain causes extreme discomfort and can relegate a person to the bed for long periods that are both unproductive and painful. Back pain is diagnosed with a range of physical tests to determine the range of the patient’s motion and nerve function. Samples of blood or urine are also collected to determine if the pain is due to infections or systemic problems that require medication. Additional tests such as X-rays help in accurately identifying the bones that could be broken or having defects.

Symptoms

Low back pain might begin as acute due to an injury but can become chronic.

Dull aching pain in lower back accompanied by mild or severe muscles spasms &decreased range of motion
Sometimes low back pain includes a sharp ,tingling ,shooting pain that can radiate down the thighs to the leg and feet
Pain worsens during sitting
Pain that feels better while changing positions
Inability to stand up straight without pain