It seems like all we do is work. We work to earn money to pay for all the things we need and want in life. We work so much we can sometimes forget about the stresses and strains on our bodies.

How many times has your back started hurting and you cannot figure out why? Or what about that sudden stabbing pain that occurs if we move the wrong way?

The sad truth is, back pain can have many sources: nerves, muscles, bones, or other structures in the spinal column. Lower back pain (lumbago) is very common in adults. Lumbago can be just a dull ache or a pain severe enough to make us cry out.

Back pain comes in two different categories. Acute back pain normally lasts less than three months. Chronic back pain last more than three week and normally gives people many more problems.

Many symptoms are notable when suffering from lower back pain. It is not just a pain that can center anywhere from the bottom of the ribs to the tops of the legs. Other symptoms may occur, as well.

• Fever
• Swelling on the back
• Persistent pain
• Pain in the chest or high on the back
• Pain that is down legs and below the knees
• Weight loss
• Loss of bladder control
• Difficulty in passing urine
• Numbness

If any of these symptoms occur, it is best to consult your doctor immediately.

The causes of back pain are many:

• Slouching in chairs
• Bending and twisting at the same time
• Lifting heavy object improperly
• Standing too long
• Bending over too long
• Sneezing or coughing
• Over-stretching
• Driving for long hours
• Arthritis
• Pregnancy
• Viral infections
• Trip and fall
• Obesity
• Sleeping disorders
• Injury
• Lack of exercise

If you have back pain, it is recommended that you visit a doctor or chiropractor as soon as possible or you may inadvertently aggravate the problem. Your doctor may prescribe proven methods of exercise to ease that aching back.