Lower Back in : Sciatica / lumbar radiculopathy · 528

Low back pain is one of the leading causes of disability and missed work globally, with the World Health Organization identifying it as a top contributor to years lived with disability. The large majority of cases are classified as non-specific, meaning no single structural abnormality fully explains the pain, and most episodes improve within weeks with continued activity.

A minority of cases involve identifiable causes such as disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis, and a very small proportion present with red-flag features suggesting infection, fracture, or cauda equina syndrome that require urgent medical attention. This page covers the region's anatomy, common conditions, assessment approaches, and general rehabilitation patterns.

Population studies suggest that a large majority of adults will experience at least one episode of low back pain during their lifetime, making it one of the most frequent reasons for clinic visits. Is bed rest recommended for low back pain? Current guidelines, including those from the American College of Physicians, generally advise against prolonged bed rest and instead recommend staying as active as tolerated.