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.

Fortunately, measures can help prevent or relieve most back pain episodes, especially for people younger than age 60. If prevention fails, simple home treatment and using the body correctly often will heal the back within a few weeks. Surgery is rarely needed to treat back pain.

Common reasons for back pain include muscle strain, disk damage, and some health conditions, such as scoliosis and osteoporosis. Options for treating it include applying a warm or cold compress, acupuncture, and medications.