Symptoms of back pain - Back Pain

Simple back pain is often in your lower back (lumbar region), and may also spread to your buttocks and thighs. It's often described as a dull pain and can come and go at different times, depending on your level of activity. The pain can begin suddenly or come on gradually if you strain your back over time.

Simple back pain usually only lasts a few days and gets better on its own.

However, you should see your GP as soon as possible if, as well as back pain, you have:

fever (high temperature)
redness or swelling on your back
pain down your legs and below your knees
numbness or weakness in one or both legs or around your buttocks
loss of bladder or bowel control (incontinence)
Some symptoms are called "red flags" and may indicate that you require treatment for an underlying condition. You should see your GP if:

your pain is the result of an injury
you're under 20 or over 55 and the pain lasts for more than a few days
you have had or currently have cancer in any part of your body
you have HIV/AIDS
you have been taking steroid medicines for more than a few months