Health Topics

Find information on many health topics, listed A to Z.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common health complaints in the U.S. In fact, eight out of 10 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Symptoms include muscle ache, shooting or stabbing pain, pain that radiates down your leg and limited flexibility or range of motion of the back. Get tips to manage your pain, and know when to see your health care provider.

March

Fitness & Weight Management
Virtual

This virtual multiweek exercise class is for people with chronic pain conditions. Participants will learn a basic exercise routine and get education about living with chronic pain. The class is hosted by Mayo Clinic Health System Rehabilitation Services staff. Join any Zoom session using passcode 679847.

Do not participate in this class if you have any of these conditions:

  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Uncontrolled heart rhythms (arrhythmia)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • New neurologic symptoms that you have not discussed with your physician (e.g. dizziness, blurry vision, change in taste or smell)

If you have any of the above conditions, but your symptoms are controlled well with medication or inhalers and your provider has cleared you to exercise, it is safe for you to participate.

From The Blog

Pain in the back: Spinal arthritis

The spine is susceptible to arthritis because of its range of motion. But not everyone who has arthritis has symptoms or needs treatment. Learn how being active can keep the pain away.

Gazanfar Rahmathulla, M.B.B.S., M.D. By Gazanfar Rahmathulla March 8, 2023

Targeting pain with restorative neuromodulation

Pain management historically has addressed a symptom rather than the underlying cause. Learn how an implanted restorative neurostimulation device treats the cause of pain and not just the symptoms.

Richard Siegfried, M.D. By Richard Siegfried February 16, 2023

On pins and needles: Just what is dry needling?

While it has an intimidating name, dry needling is a commonly offered treatment for muscle, ligament or tendon pain. Learn how it can release muscle trigger points and ease pain.

Bryce Jenson, P.T., D.P.T. By Bryce Jenson February 10, 2023

Pain relief for worn spinal disks

Back pain is common. Yours could be caused when the fluid-filled, shock-absorbing cushions in your spine wear out. Learn about why this happens and what you can do.

Kendall Snyder, M.D. By Kendall Snyder October 11, 2022

Are backpacks hurting your kids' backs?

The backpack is as much as a part of school life as homework and recess. Get tips for picking out your child's backpack, and how to wear it to avoid neck and back problems.

Michelle Rein MD By Michelle Rein September 6, 2022

Arlene Wellemeyer finds pain relief, balance through yoga

Arlene’s retirement was far from stress-free. Thanks to private and group yoga classes, she learned how to manage her pain and bring balance to her body and life.

August 19, 2022

Decompress and stabilize: Understanding types of back surgery

If nonsurgical treatments have failed to improve stress, strain and pain in your back, surgery may be the next option. Learn about the two categories of back surgery and when each is recommended.

T.K. Schiefer, M.D. By T.K. Schiefer May 20, 2022

Q&A: Surgery for low back pain

Most people with back pain don't require surgery, but there are situations when it's the best option. Get answers to 7 FAQ about low back surgery, including signs that it may be necessary.

T.K. Schiefer, M.D. By T.K. Schiefer November 11, 2021

7 common low back pain FAQ

About 4 in 5 U.S. adults experience back pain, with symptoms ranging from a minor inconvenience to debilitating. Read answers to 7 FAQ about low back pain.

October 28, 2021

Pain, pain go away: Back pain causes, solutions

About 80% of adults experience temporary back pain. But if the pain lingers, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. In this webinar, two neurosurgeons discuss the causes of back pain and when to seek medical care.

October 22, 2021

Back pain self-care tips

Almost 80% of adults say they have experienced back pain. Follow these steps to protect from further injury and ease your pain.

Kendall Snyder, M.D. By Kendall Snyder September 9, 2021

Surgery to correct scoliosis helps Pat Druckenmiller move again

After avoiding surgery for 24 years, pain from arthritis and scoliosis made it difficult for Pat to walk. Learn how neurosurgery stabilized her spine and eliminated the pain.

August 25, 2021