Back pain is an extremely common issue that almost everyone faces at some point. It is classified as acute (lasting few days to weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 3 months). Muscle strain is the most common cause of acute lower back pain resulting from overstretching or tearing of back muscles. Most people with muscle strain recover within 2 weeks with rest, gentle stretching exercises, heating pad, physical therapy and OTC meds such as NSAIDS (Ibuprofen, Aleve). If symptoms of acute back pain last for over 6 weeks you should consult a provider for imaging such as MRI for further evaluation. Other causes include herniated or bulging discs, injuries, kidney problems (referred pain), spinal stenosis, spondylosis, vertebral compression fracture, osteoarthritis. Depending on the diagnosis further treatment plan can be tailored. In severe cases depending on the symptoms and MRI findings you may be referred to specialists (Pain management, Ortho-spine, Neurosurgery) for surgical treatment.