Back pain is one of the most common health complaints among adults, but not all back pain is constant. For many people, the discomfort flares up, eases, and returns again without warning. If your back pain comes and goes, it may leave you wondering what’s triggering it and whether you should be concerned. Intermittent back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from everyday strain to underlying medical issues. Below are three common reasons for this type of pain, along with signs that it might be time to seek medical attention.
For same-day injury treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our urgent care center provides same-day diagnoses and treatment plans for all patients in the Elizabeth, NJ area. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Muscle Strain or Overuse
One of the most common causes of back pain that comes and goes is a strained muscle. This can happen from lifting something heavy, overexerting yourself during exercise, or even sitting in an awkward position for too long. Muscle strain doesn’t always cause constant discomfort– it can flare up during certain movements, then subside when you’re resting.
If your pain worsens after physical activity or feels better with stretching and rest, muscle strain is a likely culprit. Fortunately, mild strains often heal on their own with time, rest, and over-the-counter pain relief. But if the pain keeps coming back or starts to affect your daily routine, it’s worth getting checked out.
Poor Posture or Ergonomics
Spending long hours sitting at a desk, looking down at a phone, or standing with poor posture can all place stress on your back over time. This kind of repetitive strain doesn’t always cause immediate pain, but instead builds gradually and causes discomfort that comes and goes, especially toward the end of the day or after prolonged inactivity. Improving your posture, adjusting your workstation, and incorporating core-strengthening exercises can help prevent recurring pain. However, if posture-related pain becomes more persistent or begins to radiate into your legs or neck, a provider should evaluate you to rule out more serious spinal issues.
Underlying Conditions Like Arthritis or Disc Issues
Some cases of intermittent back pain are due to underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis, herniated discs, or degenerative disc disease. These conditions can cause inflammation or pressure on the nerves, leading to pain that flares up with certain movements or after long periods of rest.
Because symptoms may come and go– especially in the early stages– it’s easy to overlook the root cause. If your back pain is accompanied by stiffness, tingling, weakness, or pain that radiates down your legs, you should seek medical evaluation to identify the source and begin appropriate treatment.
When To Visit Urgent Care For Back Pain
You should consider visiting urgent care if your back pain suddenly worsens, interferes with your mobility, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever or numbness. At urgent care, a medical provider can perform a physical exam by observing your posture, checking your range of motion, and testing reflexes. If necessary, X-rays may be needed. Based on the diagnosis, a treatment plan will be recommended which may include medications, physical therapy, posture adjustments, and rest.
Get Walk-In Back Pain Relief at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth in Elizabeth, NJ
Back pain that comes and goes can be frustrating– but it’s also a clue that your body is trying to tell you something. Whether it’s due to muscle strain, posture habits, or an underlying spinal issue, intermittent back pain shouldn’t be ignored if it keeps returning. Identifying the cause early can help prevent the discomfort from becoming chronic and allow you to get back to your normal routine. If your back pain is affecting your daily life, don’t wait to get checked out. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth for fast, professional care.
We accept most insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about injury treatment, or other services we provide, please contact our team directly at (908) 677-5900.
