I've had back pain on and off for five years now. Why won't it go away?

Recurring back pain is common. Once you have had an episode of debilitating back pain, you have a 90% chance that it will come back. There are many possible reasons why your back pain keeps recurring. You may be straing or overusing your back in some activity that you do regularly. You may have a weak disc that has started to bulge, which puts pressure on the joints, nerves, or ligaments. You may have weak muscles or ligaments around your spine, which make your spinal joints unstable.

Whatever the cause, you will probably benefit form an exercise program designed specifically for you. Your doctor can direct you to a physical or occupational therapist. Your doctor and therpist can also help you find more effective ways to manage the pain.