Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent health issues globally, affecting about 9–12% of people at any given time (approximately 632 million individuals) and nearly 25% over a one-month period. Lifetime prevalence reaches between 40% and 80%, especially in developed regions. Symptoms range from mild soreness to debilitation, usually exacerbated by mechanical actions like lifting or twisting. Many cases improve substantially within six weeks, though recurrences are common—over 50% experience repeat episodes. Factors such as depression, job dissatisfaction, and poor coping skills significantly influence chronicity and disability risk.
Management emphasizes education, maintaining activity, and physical therapy. Opioid use is not an effective way of treating low back pain, and may even pose many health concerns. Prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate self-care and activity. In refractory cases, a pain management physician can help diagnose and treat the source of the pain with minimally invasive interventional techniques—often saving patients from undergoing significant spine surgeries.