Definition

Your spine is a column of bones (vertebrae) held together by muscles, tendons and ligaments and cushioned by shock-absorbing disks. A problem in any part of your spine can cause back pain. For some people, back pain is simply an annoyance. For others, it can be excruciating and disabling.

Most back pain — even severe back pain — goes away on its own within six weeks. Surgery usually isn't needed for back pain and generally is considered only if other treatments are not effective.