Low back pain is pain felt in the lower part of the spine and is sometimes called lumbar pain.
It might feel like:
- sharp pain
- dull ache
- stiffness
- soreness
- tingling in your legs and feet.
Low back pain can start suddenly or build up over time. It can be mild or strong, and it can last for a short time or longer.
- When it lasts less than 6 weeks it’s called acute pain.
- When it continues for 6-12 weeks it’s called sub-acute pain.
- When it continues for 3 months or longer it’s called chronic, or persistent, pain.
People can also experience acute pain flares on top of chronic pain conditions.