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Re-activateI have a painful pinched nerve in my lower back. What's the best treatment for this condition? —H.H.H., Morganton, Ga.
In most cases, simple measures you can do on your own are all that's necessary. Those include using over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding activities such as high-impact sports. The pain, which can result when the disk cushioning two vertebrae ruptures and pushes on a nerve, usually goes away on its own within four to six weeks. So imaging tests usually aren't needed and often turn up unrelated abnormalities that lead to unnecessary treatment. But talk with your doctor if the pain persists for longer than six weeks, radiates into the legs, is accompanied by fever or night sweats, follows a recent accident or infection, or if you have osteoporosis or a history of cancer.
Read more on the risk factors for back pain, and see our Treatment Ratings for short-term back pain.
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