Back pain evaluation

A health care provider at MinuteClinic will recommend appropriate back pain treatment for your symptoms. However, back pain that lasts a long time without any signs of improvement may be an indication of a more serious back condition. If this is the case, a MinuteClinic provider can refer you to a primary care provider or a specialist for further evaluation and treatment of your back pain.

Remember, back pain is a symptom and not a disease itself. With a back pain assessment and treatment from your local MinuteClinic, back pain doesn’t have to slow you down.

1. Prior to scheduling your appointment, you may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:



If you made your appointment online:

Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.



If you made your appointment in the clinic:

Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.

4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.

5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

If you’ve only been experiencing pain for a few days, you may want to try self-care methods such as rest and stretching. If your pain lasts longer, make an appointment at a MinuteClinic location for an examination of your back and possible back pain treatment.

Additionally, if you notice new bowel or bladder problems, or you suddenly get a fever while experiencing back pain, seek care right away.

Common causes of back pain include:

• Back injury from lifting heavy items 
• Muscle strain or back spasms
• Arthritis
• Spinal disc problems

Lower back pain can be caused by overuse or an injury to the muscles or connective tissue in the back. 

Anyone can experience back pain. However, certain factors may increase your chances of developing back pain. These include: 

• Fitness level: Back pain is more common among people who do not exercise regularly. 
• Obesity: If you are overweight, your weight may affect your back. 
• Job-related risk factors: Physical jobs that require heavy lifting can negatively impact your back. Desk jobs can also be hard on your back, depending on your posture and the quality of your desk chair and setup.
• Age: Back pain can occur at any age but is more likely to occur in adults ages 30 and older. 
• Family history: Genetics can play a role in the overall health of your back.

In general, it's common for lower back pain to last from a few days to a few weeks before going away on its own. However, back pain can also be a symptom of more serious issues, such as a ruptured disc or osteoporosis. If you have back pain that comes and goes but seems to be getting worse over time, visit MinuteClinic®. MinuteClinic providers can perform a back pain evaluation and help you find back pain treatment to suit your individual back pain needs.

Back pain relief can come through a variety of treatment methods. Try back pain self-care methods such as rest or applying ice or a heating pad to the back. This can be combined with the use of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication. Stretching is also an effective back pain relief method that you can do at home. These remedies can also help relieve lower back pain.

Things you can do to prevent back pain include:

• Using proper lifting techniques in your everyday life 
• Regularly stretching and exercising, especially to strengthen core muscles 
• Eating a healthy diet and drinking a lot of water
• Avoiding smoking and minimizing alcohol intake
• Using ergonomic furniture