01/05/2026
Back pain is not all the same. The way it behaves over time gives important clues about what is really going on and what type of care will help you recover.
Acute pain usually lasts less than six weeks. It often comes from a sudden strain, twist, lift, or impact. Muscles tighten up to protect the area and the body reacts quickly to the stress. With the right early care, acute pain often settles as the tissues heal.
Chronic pain lasts three months or longer. This type of pain is usually linked to deeper issues inside the spine or surrounding muscles. It may involve disc changes, joint irritation, nerve sensitivity, or long-term weakness in the stabilizing muscles. Chronic pain needs a different approach because the body has adapted to the discomfort and learned protective patterns that limit movement.
Understanding which category your pain fits into helps determine whether you need short-term care, targeted rehabilitation, or a deeper evaluation of spinal mechanics. The right diagnosis shapes the right treatment.
If your pain has been unpredictable, on and off, or longer than expected, start with a detailed assessment so you know what you are dealing with and what can help.
