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Back pain is such a common health condition that an estimated 8 out of 10 people experience it at least once during their lifetime. Causes are often physical, including mechanical issues (usually related to disc problems), injuries (from a fall, heavy lifting, or accident), certain medical conditions or diseases (such as scoliosis), infections, and tumors. Level of pain ranges from dull to sharp, and can be acute or chronic in nature. Although most back pain resolves on its own, treatment might be advised if symptoms do not improve. Therapy varies by type of back pain and includes nonoperative and surgical options. Prevention is key to maintaining a healthy, strong back. Aging, heredity, and race place some people at higher risk for back pain, so managing modifiable risk factors can help, including exercising back muscles regularly, sustaining a healthy weight, maintaining proper posture and back support, and avoiding activities that could harm the back.
