Many episodes of back pain improve within weeks, and the cause is not always obvious. NHS advice favours manageable daily activity over prolonged bed rest, with professional advice on suitable pain relief. Staying active does not mean forcing an exercise that worsens pain. Stop aggravating exercises and seek guidance. Persistent pain, disrupted daily activities or unexplained weight loss warrants assessment. Back pain with numbness around the genitals, bladder or bowel changes, or weakness and tingling in both legs requires emergency care, as does pain after a serious accident.