Low back pain, muscle tension and spasm localized to the lower back from the costal margin to the upper back with or without referred pain down the back of the thigh or down the leg.

Distinguishing the signs and symptoms of sensory (mechanical) from neuropathic (etiological) pain is an essential first step in diagnosing acute back pain. There is a wide range of potential causes for both adults and children. The etiology varies depending on the patient, but is most commonly mechanical or nonspecific.