Low back pain

Low back pain is pain in your back anywhere below the ribs and above the legs. It can be dull or sharp. You might feel it in only one spot or over a broad area. Some people also have numbness, tingling, or weakness in one or both legs from a pinched nerve in the back.

Most back pain gets better within 4 to 6 weeks with home treatment like exercises and taking over-the-counter pain medicine. But in some people the pain lasts longer.

Most people who have low back pain get it again at least once.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.