Nonspecific back pain refers to pain in the back that is not caused by a diagnosed disorder, such as a ruptured disc.

What is going on in the body?

Nearly everyone has back pain at some time. About 20% of people have some form of back pain each year. Back pain is the most common cause of disability for people under the age of 45. Back pain can be in different locations. Pain can be in the neck, upper back and shoulders, and the lower back. Often nonspecific back pain results from stresses on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine. Sometimes it is hard to find the cause of the pain.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

The exact cause of back pain may be hard to find. Pain can come from muscles, ligaments, nerves, discs, or bones. People who are inactive are especially at risk. Inactive people are not conditioned. They are prone to strains when they use their back. Other risk factors include the following: