Overview
Most acute back pain is mechanical — muscle or ligament strain — and resolves in 4–6 weeks. Sciatica is nerve pain radiating down the leg from lumbar disc or foraminal compression.
Symptoms to watch for
- Localized low back pain worse with movement (mechanical)
- Radiating pain down the leg (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling in leg
- Weakness in foot dorsiflexion or plantarflexion
What else could this be?
- Vertebral fracture
- Kidney stone or infection
- Aortic aneurysm
- Metastatic cancer
How it's diagnosed
History and exam. Imaging (MRI) only for red flags, radiculopathy not improving, or before injection/surgery.
Treatment
First-line: activity as tolerated, NSAIDs, heat, physical therapy. Muscle relaxants short-term. Epidural steroid injections for persistent radiculopathy. Surgery for red flags or refractory nerve compression.
When to book a visit
Book for pain lasting more than a few days or for sciatica.
Book online todayFrequently asked
Should I get an MRI?
Not for uncomplicated acute back pain — findings are common in asymptomatic people and often lead to unnecessary procedures. MRI is for red flags or persistent radiculopathy.