1 of 5 / Overview
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Back Pain Basics
One of the more common types of back pain comes from straining the bands of muscles surrounding the spine.
Causes of Back Pain
Back pain often happens because something is off in the way your spinal joints, muscles, discs, and nerves fit together and move.
Spinal Disk Problems
Anybody who has experienced a damaged spinal disk understands how painful it is. Every movement seems to make it worse.
2 of 5 / Symptoms
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Upper, Middle, and Low Back Pain Symptoms
Get the facts on the aches and pains that signal back problems.
Sciatica Symptoms
Sciatica can cause pain in the lower back and the legs. Learn more.
Low Back Strain
One of the main causes of back pain, whether acute or chronic, is low back strain.
Nighttime Back Pain
Nighttime back pain is a special type of lower back pain that could indicate a serious problem with your spine.
3 of 5 / Tests & Diagnosis
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How is Back Pain Diagnosed?
Before a doctor can begin treating back pain, they may do tests to diagnose what is causing your problem.
Choosing a Doctor for Back Pain
Get tips on selecting a doctor.
Back Pain Tests
Learn what to expect when you see your doctor about back pain.
Spinal X-Ray
Spinal X-rays are pictures of the spine. They may be taken to find injuries or diseases that affect the discs or joints.
4 of 5 / Treatment
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5 of 5 / Living With
View AllSuggested Reads about Back Pain
Surprising Reasons for Back Pain
Do you know what's causing your sore back? Learn about some less obvious reasons for back pain -- from insomnia to your fashion choices -- and what you can do to feel better.
Bad Habits for Your Back
You’re more likely to have back pain as you get older. WebMD shows how to avoid making things worse with bad habits.
A Visual Guide to Low Back Pain
WebMD's low back pain slideshow explains the most common causes of low back pain and what you can do to help alleviate it.
Tackling Your Everyday Activities with Low Back Pain
When you have low back pain, common activities like climbing stairs and driving might be harder. Learn the best moves from this WebMD slideshow.
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