If you have ever had pain in your lower back, know that you are not alone. Thousands of South Carolinians see doctors for this kind of pain each year. And nationally, 1 in 4 working adults experience low back pain*. 

That is why it is important to know what kind of care to seek when you have low back pain*. 

There are two kinds of low back pain: acute and chronic. Most cases are acute pain, meaning a sudden onset possibly related to a specific event. Chronic pain is continual and lasts for a longer period of time. 

How Can I Treat the Pain? 

Many medical professionals advise treating acute low back pain at home first. Applying heat or ice, stretching gently and walking are known to help. 

Some people can get pain relief from over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory drugs. These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB or generic) or naproxen (Aleve and generic). Be sure to follow the dosages on the package. 

You can find other suggestions for treating low back pain* on the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. 

Visit Your Doctor

If self-care does not help, you may not need to go to the emergency room (ER) or a specialist. A primary care physician (PCP) can handle an initial screening. He or she can tell you if you need further evaluation. You can find a network doctor on My Health Toolkit^®. Having a trusted doctor is key for managing your overall health. 

Your Medical History Is Important

A PCP will likely conduct a physical exam and ask for a complete medical history. The doctor will check reflexes, strengths and weaknesses to find out the cause of the pain. It is important to provide a full medical history.

Imaging Tests May Not Be Necessary

Our most current data tells us that more than 100,000 unnecessary imaging tests were ordered in one year in an outpatient setting for back pain. More than 14,000 unnecessary tests were ordered in the ER. These tests did not inform treatment and exposed people to potential risks. 

This is why imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans and MRIs are not recommended* for acute back pain within the first six weeks.

Imaging tests for lower back pain usually do not help and can sometimes cause harm. X-rays and CT scans use radiation. Over time, radiation can be harmful. It is best to avoid radiation when possible. These tests can also result in incidental findings and more testing that isn’t necessary. 

Tests Can Be Expensive

Tests and procedures can come with high costs. Imaging tests can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. If those tests lead to surgery, the cost gets even higher. 

When Are Imaging Tests Needed?

If there are red flags, imaging may be necessary. Your doctor will assess for those red flags, such as numbness or weakness in the legs. 

You might need imaging tests right away. If you have other symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. Other symptoms to look out for include: 

• Weight loss that you cannot explain.
• Fever over 102 degrees.
• Loss of control of your bowel or bladder.
• Loss of feeling or strength in your legs.
• Problems with your reflexes.
• A history of cancer.

Know What To Ask 

Before going to see a doctor, know what questions to ask. If the doctor recommends imaging tests before six weeks, ask why.

These five questions are a good starting point for any conversation with your doctor: 

• What are you looking for? 
• What will you do with that information? 
• How will the results be used to change the treatment? 
• What happens if I don’t do anything? 
• How much does it cost, and will my insurance cover it? 

*These links lead to third-party websites. Those organizations are responsible for the content and privacy policies on their sites.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is an independent organization that provides health information you may find helpful.