It is estimated that the majority of adults will likely suffer from lower back pain at some type during their lifetime. Lower back pain is generally classified as either chronic or acute in nature, depending on the duration of pain symptoms.
Low back pain may be either chronic or acute in nature. Acute low back pain is defined by a sudden onset and a duration that is usually a number of days to a number of weeks. Chronic low back pain is a condition that lasts longer. An incidence of pain is diagnosed as chronic if it lasts for three months or longer. Experiencing acute lower back pain can increase the risk of developing a chronic case in the future. Accurate assessment and diagnosis of lumbar spine pain is vital for successful treatment outcomes. A detailed history and physical exam will help the physician arrive at an accurate diagnosis of a patient’s lower back pain.