Back pain can be caused by various factors, including muscle or ligament strain, herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, poor posture, injuries, and conditions such as scoliosis or osteoporosis. Lifestyle factors like obesity, lack of exercise, and stress can also contribute to back pain.

To prevent back pain, maintain a healthy weight, stay active with regular exercise, practice good posture, use proper techniques when lifting heavy objects, ensure your workstation is ergonomically set up, and avoid prolonged sitting or standing without breaks.

You should see a doctor if your back pain is severe, lasts more than a few weeks, is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs, or if you experience loss of bladder or bowel control. Also, seek medical attention if the pain is due to an injury or trauma.

Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, pain relief medications, heat or ice therapy, exercise, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

Yes, back pain can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, infection, fracture, or tumors.