Severity of Back Injuries
Current as of: November 20, 2017
Most back injuries are caused by lifting or twisting and are not serious. Minor injuries can also result from overuse of the muscles and ligaments in the back. Back pain caused by a minor injury will usually go away by itself within 1 to 4 weeks.
Moderate back injuries may result from tripping or falling short distances. They frequently involve excessive twisting of the spine.
Severe back injuries are more likely to cause more serious problems. Severe back injuries may be caused by:
Severe back injuries must be checked by a doctor right away.
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Current as ofNovember 20, 2017
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