What it is
Back pain is very common, and most episodes settle within a few weeks. When pain continues beyond three months, it is called chronic. Often there is no single serious cause. It may come from muscles, joints, discs and how the nervous system processes pain, alongside factors such as sleep, stress and activity levels.
Less commonly, a specific condition such as a slipped disc, stenosis or spondylolisthesis is responsible.
Common symptoms
Patients with chronic back pain frequently report one or more of the following sensations:
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if you have:
- Loss of control over your bladder or bowels
- Numbness around your groin or inner thighs
- Weakness in your legs that is getting worse
- Back pain with fever, or after a serious fall or accident
- Unexplained weight loss or a history of cancer
Otherwise, see a spine specialist if symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep coming back, or stop you from working, sleeping or walking comfortably.
Treatment options
Without surgery
The vast majority of spine conditions begin and resolve with conservative care:
When surgery may help
Surgery is only considered when non-surgical measures do not provide relief:
Surgery helps only when a specific, treatable cause is found, such as nerve compression or instability. For most people with chronic back pain, non-surgical treatment is the right approach.
Recovery
Improvement is usually gradual. Steady, regular activity tends to help more than rest.
Recovery varies from person to person. Your doctor will guide you on what is right for you.
Common questions
Do I need an MRI for back pain?
Not always. Scans are useful when there are warning signs, nerve symptoms, or when surgery is being considered. Many back pain cases don't need one.
Should I avoid exercise if my back hurts?
Usually not. Gentle, regular activity is one of the most effective treatments for chronic back pain.
Consult Dr Vem Krishna Bhargava Reddy regarding your chronic back pain symptoms
Most spine conditions respond to structured conservative care. If your symptoms are severe, worsening, or not responding to initial remedies, an in-person clinical examination and MRI review will give you clear, reassuring answers.
Consultations are scheduled across Apollo Hospitals (Jubilee Hills) and Vem Speciality Clinics, Madhapur based on schedule and clinical availability.