They can't bend over or lean or stand up straight. Some have pain that travels down into their leg or foot. Others have a tingling feeling or numbness. Many patients can't function normally because of the pain. Depression is more common in chronic back pain patients than in the general population.
Patients often have insomnia and fatigue.
Low back pain that lasts for three months or more is called chronic. Pain that doesn't go away should be evaluated by a doctor. Your doctor should take your complete medical and family history. He or she should do a thorough physical exam and a blood work-up. You should give your doctor a description of the pain.