I went to my doctor because my lower back had been hurting for a few weeks. He checked me and then said that we’d keep an eye on it. What kind of treatment is that? He didn’t prescribe anything for me.

Chronic lower back pain is very common and, according to statistics, the third most common reason why Americans visit a doctor. Back pain can interfere with the quality of life and in how you live your life.

That being said, there are many causes of back pain and just about as many ways to treat it. It is likely that during your examination, your doctor determined that your back pain isn’t acute or something that could deteriorate into a worse condition. Once this has been ruled out, there are options that the doctor can consider.

One option is called watchful waiting. While it may seem as if nothing is being done, watchful waiting involves keeping a close eye on you and your back, looking for signs of improvement or deterioration. Experience and research have shown that this is a good approach to take in many cases of chronic lower back pain.

If you are concerned with how your back pain is being managed, it is important that you speak with your doctor and as ask as many questions as you need to in order to feel comfortable with your care.