Most back pain disappears with home treatment and self-care. Although it may take several weeks before back pain completely disappears, if you don't feel some improvement within the first 72 hours of self-care, see your doctor.

In rare cases, back pain can signal a serious medical problem. See a doctor immediately if your back pain:

• Occurs with a fever of 100.4 F for more than 48 hours

• Feels constant or intense, especially at night

• Spreads down one or both legs

• Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs

• Interferes with bladder and bowel control

• Is associated with abdominal pain or pulsation (throbbing)

See your doctor if:

• You feel back pain after an injury

• You feel back pain now and have a history of back pain or cancer

• Your back pain has lasted more than 6 weeks

• You have back pain and are older than age 50

• You feel back pain and have lost more than 10 pounds within 6 months