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Back pain: questions to ask your doctor

Last published:Aug 06, 2021

If you've got back pain, you may want to talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask:

  • Do you know what's causing my back pain?

  • Do I need to have any tests?

  • What treatment do I need?

  • What should I do if the treatment doesn't make me feel better?

  • Do I need to stay in bed or rest, or can I do my usual activities?

  • Can I carry on going to work?

  • How long will it take for me to get better?

  • What else can I do to make my back feel better?

  • Are there any exercises that can make my back stronger?

  • Which sport or exercises should I avoid, and which ones might be helpful?

  • Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that might help?

  • What can I do to avoid getting a backache again?

  • Is it all right for me to drive?

The patient information from BMJ Best Practice is regularly updated. The most recent version of Best Practice can be found at bestpractice.bmj.com. This information is intended for use by health professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice. It is strongly recommended that you independently verify any interpretation of this material and, if you have a medical problem, see your doctor.

Please see BMJ's full terms of use at: bmj.com/company/legal-information. BMJ does not make any representations, conditions, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that this material is accurate, complete, up-to-date or fit for any particular purposes.

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