Low Back Pain

Based upon your answers, some of the most likely causes of your back pain include

• a muscle strain or spasm

• degenerative joint disease (or osteoarthritis)

• ankylosing spondylitis (or a related condition).

To decrease pain, rest the back and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a heating pad, and topical treatments (such as Icy Hot, Ben Gay or ice) may help.

While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.

Click here for more information on these conditions and others.