MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Backaches and stress

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Backaches and stress

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names	Information

Illustrations

Skeletal spine

Vertebra, lumbar (low back)

Vertebra, thoracic (mid back)

Vertebral column

Backaches

Alternative names Return to top

Stress and backaches

Information Return to top

Question:
Can stress cause backaches?

Answer:
Stress can make you more susceptible to getting a backache. Similary, reducing stress can help you recovery more quickly from a back injury. But, be careful not to blame back pain on stress because you may be overlooking a serious cause.

It is important to see a doctor right away if:

Your back pain radiates to the buttocks, arms or legs.
You have weakness or numbness in your arms or legs.
You have any loss of bladder or bowel control.
The pain wakes you up from sleep.

See back pain, low for details.

Update Date: 12/5/2003

Updated by: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.