Skip to content

Does Back Pain Hurt All the Time?

Does Back Pain Hurt All the Time?
Does Back Pain Hurt All the Time?

Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems that people face. It can be debilitating and it can definitely put a damper on daily activities. Pain in the back can vary in type and intensity. Some people experience constant pain while others may only feel discomfort intermittently. In this blog post, we will discuss whether back pain hurts all the time and what factors can contribute to the level of pain experienced.

The answer to whether back pain hurts all the time is not straightforward. Different factors determine the level of pain felt by the individual. The type and severity of the injury as well as the emotional state of the person can significantly impact their perception of pain. The intensity of the pain can also vary throughout the day or week depending on physical activity or rest.

It is essential to understand that pain is a subjective experience. Everyone’s pain tolerance and perception of pain are different. It means that two individuals with the same condition can experience pain differently. Some people can experience back pain at night. There is no reference for what constitutes “normal” back pain and people should never compare their pain to others.

From my experience as a Physiotherapist, it is often the case that patients experience back pain sporadically. It means that the pain comes and goes and it can be related to physical activity or a particular posture. For example, a person may experience pain while bending forward but the pain disappears when sitting upright or lying down. Alternatively, people may feel pain while standing for extended periods but can find relief when sitting.

The type of back pain can also result in varying levels of pain. For example, neuropathic pain which originates from the nerves can be more severe and more enduring than the pain from a muscle strain. Pain can also be related to inflammation, which is more of a dull ache than sharp pain. When the inflammation subsides, the pain often disappears with it.

Chiropractors typically treat people with back pain focusing on the spine’s alignment and balancing the body’s musculoskeletal systems. As a chiropractor, I see that some people can experience long-lasting pain, while others may find relief from spinal adjustments and manual therapy. However, there is no guarantee that the treatment will alleviate the pain, as different factors influence the pain perception.

So, does back pain hurt all the time? The answer is no, and it’s different for everyone. Pain is a subjective experience that varies from person to person. The severity of the pain can depend on a range of factors such as the type of injury, pain tolerance, and emotional state. If you have back pain, it is important to seek advice from a qualified physiotherapist on back pain or chiropractor. The healthcare professional will develop a customized treatment plan to manage the pain and help find relief. Remember, everyone’s experience is unique, and no two people will experience pain the same way.

Still have questions? Visit our Back Pain Guide for more detailed information.

About the Author

Jonathan Tran, MScPT is a physiotherapist at CARESPACE Westmount East. He helps clients improve their health through personalized, evidence-based care. If you’re looking for physiotherapy in Kitchener, CARESPACE offers coordinated support designed to help you be your best.