How to tell if back pain is muscle or disc?

Muscle pain is generally localized and gets better with gentle stretching and a light walk if your doctor allows it. Disc pain, however, is a deep neural pain that can worsen with certain movements and might cause weakness in your legs. It is highly recommended to get a proper medical diagnosis before starting any physical exercise.

From my experience, a muscle strain usually feels like a dull, aching soreness that gets tender when you press it directly. A disc issue often causes a sharp, burning pain that shoots down your legs when you bend. Don't worry too much, but do get an MRI or doctor's advice to know for sure.

When my son hurt his back lifting weights, it was a muscle pull that got better with rest and ice packs. If it is a disc issue, the pain is often accompanied by a tingling sensation or weakness in your feet. Keep a close eye on it and consult an orthopedist if the pain doesn't go away.

At my age, waking up with a new back ache is just a daily routine. Muscle pain usually hurts when you move a certain way and feels sore to touch, but a bad disc will send current-like shocks down your legs even when you are lying still. If you start feeling like a broken radio, go see a specialist.