Why Your Back Pain Won’t Go Away (and When to See a Specialist)

Back pain is one of the leading reasons people miss work or skip out on life’s best moments. While most back pain improves with rest, stretching, or over-the-counter medication, sometimes the pain lingers far longer than it should.

So why won’t your back pain go away? Let’s break down the most common reasons—and when it’s time to get help.

Common Causes of Chronic Back Pain

Poor posture and sedentary habits — Sitting hunched over a desk or slouched on the couch strains your spine.
Herniated discs or pinched nerves — These can cause sharp or radiating pain down your back and legs.
Arthritis or degeneration — Age and wear on the spine can make daily movement uncomfortable.
Injuries — Even lifting something wrong can trigger pain that doesn’t fade.

When It’s Time to See a Specialist

If your back pain:

Lasts more than 2–4 weeks,
Keeps you from sleeping,
Travels down your arms or legs, or
Is paired with numbness or weakness,

…it’s time to consult a spine specialist.

At North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine (NTOS), our orthopedic experts don’t just mask pain with short-term fixes. We diagnose the root cause and provide treatment options tailored to your needs.