The Spine - Neck & Back
The back refers to the spinal column, which runs from your skull to your pelvis. Injury to any of the structures that make up this column as well as a variety of diseases, most commonly arthritis, can lead to acute or chronic back pain. Back problems can interfere with almost every activity. Recovery begins with figuring out the cause and will lead to options for relief. Here's where to start.
Back and Spine Anatomy
An inside look at the structure of the back
Back Injury
Common and some not-so-common injuries that cause back pain
Other Possible Causes of Back Pain
Back pain caused by problems elsewhere in the body
Diagnosing Back Problems
How your doctor can start to identify the cause of your back pain
Lab Tests for Back Problems
Blood tests that can tell what's going on inside your body
Imaging Tests
Tests that allow your doctor to see inside your back – painlessly
Nerve Tests
Tests that detect damaged nerves
Medications to Treat Backs
Relieving back pain with medications
Injections and Implants
Procedures and devices that deliver pain medications locally, not orally
Back Surgery
Options to consider when conservative treatments don't bring relief
Complementary and Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture, manipulation and other natural alternatives
Ways to Prevent Pain and Get Around
Helpful devices and ways to manage back pain
Preventing Back Problems
Tips to prevent back problems – or progression
