Chronic back pain is commonly described as back pain that persists for more than one to three months. Sufferers of chronic back pain may experience bouts of pain for several years, or even throughout much of their lives. Chronic pain can make regular daily activities almost impossible, and may require complicated forms of treatment over several years in some cases.

            According to Back.com, Chronic back pain is often described as “deep, aching, dull or burning pain in one area of the back or traveling down the legs.” A common side effect of chronic back pain is a tingling or burning sensation in the legs. Numbness or a pins-and-needles-like sensation may also occur. Acute back pain tends to be much more localized and intense than chronic pain, but may also require long-term treatment.

There are many possible causes of chronic back pain. The most common are previous injuries to areas of the back and continuous medical conditions, such as nerve damage or arthritis. Your family and individual medical history may also play a key role in determining whether or not you are prone to chronic back pain.

            Most treatments for chronic back pain require regular medication, exercise or natural methods of getting relief. Some medical experts have drawn connections between chronic back pain and depression. Chronic back pain may both cause depression, and be furthered by the poor posture and personal health that are sometimes associated with it. For more information on chronic back pain and depression, see the following article from SpineHealth.com.