Eight out of ten Swedes suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. For many, it goes away on its own in a few weeks - but for others, the pain becomes a constant companion that affects sleep, work and everyday life. The good news is that most forms of back pain can be treated effectively if you get the right investigation and the right help in time.
In this article, we go through what back pain can actually cause, which symptoms you should pay attention to - and above all: when it's time to seek a specialist.
What is back pain?
Back pain is a collective name for pain anywhere along the spine - from the neck all the way down to the lumbar spine. It is often divided according to where the problems are:
- Lum back pain – the most common type, affects the lower back
- Neck pain – pain and stiffness in the muscles or joints of the neck
- Thoracoback pain – pain between the shoulder blades or in the middle of the back
- Radiating pain – pain radiating into arms or legs (for example sciatica)
Back pain can also be described as acute (shorter than 6 weeks), subacute (6-12 weeks) or chronic/long-lasting (longer than 3 months).
Common symptoms - what does back pain feel like?
Pain in the back can take many different forms. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Dull, throbbing pain in the lower back or between the shoulder blades
- Stinging, sharp pain when moving
- Morning stiffness that eases after movement
- Pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica) or out into the arm
- Numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms or legs
- Pain during prolonged sitting or standing
- Difficult to find a comfortable position to sleep in
- Pain that gets worse when you cough or sneeze
Most common causes of back pain
Muscular tension and overload
By far the most common cause of back pain is muscle tension – often after long periods of sitting still, incorrect lifting or simply too little movement. The pain is usually dull and muscular, and usually eases with heat, movement and light stretching.
Herniated disc
Between each vertebra is a disc that acts as a shock absorber. In a herniated disc the soft inner part is pushed out and can pinch a nerve. Typical symptoms are:
- Sharp, radiating pain – often down a leg (sciatica)
- Numbness or weakness in the leg
- Pain that gets worse when you cough or sneeze
Sciatica
Sciatica is not a disease in itself, but a description of pain along the sciatic nerve – from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg. The cause is usually a herniated disc or irritation of the nerve root.
Facet joint pain and spinal osteoarthritis
The spine consists of many joints which over the years can suffer from arthrosis (joint wear and tear). It usually gives:
- Morning stiffness that eases after movement
- Pain that worsens with prolonged standing
- Stiffness and reduced mobility
Osteoarthritis of the back is common after the age of 50 and can be treated effectively.
Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
Over the years, the canal through which the spinal cord runs can become too narrow, putting pressure on the nerves. Classic symptom: pain and feeling of heaviness in the legs when walking longer distances, which is relieved when you bend forward or sit down.
Spondylitis and inflammatory conditions
In rarer cases, back pain can be caused by inflammatory diseases such as spondylitis or rheumatism. Morning stiffness that lasts a long time and pain that gets better with movement are typical signs.
Stress and mental strain
The back and the stress level are connected more than many people think. Prolonged stress causes the muscles to tense up - and a tense back causes pain. An overall perspective is therefore crucial.
Red flags – when you should seek care immediately
Most back problems are not dangerous, but some symptoms require urgent assessment. Contact healthcare immediately if you have:
- Sudden weakness or paralysis in leg or arm
- Problems urinating or pooing, incontinence or "riding breeches anesthesia" (loss of sensation around the genitals)
- Fever along with back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain after a major trauma (fall, accident)
In rare cases, these symptoms can be signs of serious conditions such as a herniated disc with nerve involvement, infection or tumor - and should always be assessed urgently.
When should you seek help from a specialist?
Most back problems heal in a few weeks. However, you should contact an orthopedic or pain doctor if:
- Pain has been present for more than 6 weeks without improvement
- The pain radiates into the leg or arm
- You have numbness or tingling
- Ordinary painkillers are not enough
- The pain disturbs your sleep several nights a week
- You have had back pain several times and it recurrs
- Your health center has not progressed in the investigation
At Scandinavian Health Clinic in Mölndal you see specialists in pain and orthopedics - without a referral and usually within a few days.
Treatment of back pain - that's how you get help
Movement – the best medicine
Contrary to popular belief, rest is rarely the solution to back pain. On the contrary, movement is one of the most effective treatments. An orthopedist or physiotherapist will help you adapt movements to your specific problems.
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
A structured rehab plan with strength and mobility training usually gives better long-term results than medication alone. In the case of herniated discs, sciatica and low back pain, physiotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment - especially if the pain has turned into chronic pain.
Medicines – the right treatment at the right time
In case of acute back pain, anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving drugs can help. A specialist optimizes your treatment so that you get the maximum effect with the least possible side effect - and avoids the unnecessary use of strong drugs.
Injection treatments (blockades)
For example, facet joint arthrosis or sciatica, cortisone injections can provide quick and long-lasting relief. The treatment often only takes a few minutes.
Image diagnostics - when is an MRI or X-ray needed?
Everyone with back pain doesn't need an X-ray or MRI. A specialist decides which investigation is right for your particular case. If necessary, we arrange imaging diagnostics quickly.
Surgery – only when necessary
The vast majority of people with back pain get better without surgery. However, in certain conditions – for example severe herniated disc with nerve involvement – surgery may be necessary. An orthopedist helps you assess if and when it is relevant, and refers you to the right place.
Preventive advice - how to protect your back
- Move daily – preferably 30 minutes, and mix strength with mobility
- Exercise the trunk. A strong torso relieves the back
- Vary your work position – don't sit still for more than 45 minutes at a time
- Lift with your legs, not your back
- Sleep on a good mattress – neither too soft nor too hard
- Maintain a healthy weight – extra kilos strain the lower back
- Quit smoking – tobacco impairs the nutritional supply of the dishes
- Manage stress – mental relaxation makes muscular relaxation possible
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long do you have to have back pain before you see a doctor?
Acute back pain usually heals within 4–6 weeks. Do you search earlier if the pain is severe, radiates into the leg or you have numbness. Do you search directly at red flags (see above).
Is it dangerous to exercise with back pain?
Most often not - on the contrary. Calm movement is good for the back. However, avoid heavy lifting and rotations with heavy loads until you have been properly assessed.
What is the difference between back pain and sciatica?
Back pain is pain in the back itself. Sciatica is radiating pain from the back down the leg - caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Sciatica often requires more specific treatment.
Can stress cause back pain?
Yes. Stress causes the muscles to tighten, which causes pain. An overall assessment takes into account both physical and psychological factors.
Do I need a referral to see an orthopedist?
No. At Scandinavian Health Clinic, you book an appointment directly, without a referral from a health centre.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Usually within a few days, sometimes the same week. In case of urgent problems, we try to solve it even faster.
How much does a visit cost?
The price depends on the type of visit and possible diagnostic imaging. Contact us and you will get a clear message before you book.
Can osteoarthritis in the back get better?
Osteoarthritis cannot be "cured", but can be relieved significantly. Movement, injections and individualized treatment usually give good results.
Take the first step towards a pain-free back
You shouldn't have to go with back pain that won't go away. Book an appointment with a specialist in pain and orthopedics at the Scandinavian Health Clinic in Mölndal - without a referral, with a short waiting time and close to Gothenburg.
📞 +46 (0) 10-147 77 40 ✉️ [email protected]
Book an appointment - contact us → Read more about Pain & Orthopedics → Read about neck pain → Read about sciatica → Read about herniated disc → Read about ergonomics → Read about stress → Read about chronic pain →
