Back pain in children and teens

What do I do if my child is experiencing back pain?

Children and teens are more flexible than adults, so they tend not to experience much back pain. If it does happen, it could be a sign of something more serious, so it's worth getting it checked out. At HCA UK, our orthopaedic, neurological and paediatric specialists can help get to the root of the problem.

Types of back pain in children and teens

Acute back pain

Acute back pain can last three to six months and is usually the result of damaged tissues.

Chronic back pain

Chronic back pain is pain that lasts beyond three to six months or beyond the tissue-healing period.

Neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain happens when your body continues to feel pain even though there is no tissue damage.

Need to know

Types of back pain in children and teens icon plus

Back pain in children can be developmental or acquired. Examples of developmental conditions include spondylolysis where the bridge between two adjacent vertebrae in the spine may have a defect. This is usually seen in children who take part in activities like gymnastics or cricket.

If a child with scoliosis complains of back pain it may be indicative of other problems so consult your doctor as soon as possible. Aquired back pain can be due to trauma or infection and the presentation is more acute.
What are the symptoms of back pain in children and teens? icon plus

Your child's back pain symptoms will depend on the type and cause of their back pain. Paediatric spinal infections and tumours are rare. However, they can be quite serious and have their own set of symptoms.
How is back pain in children diagnosed? icon plus

Your consultant will discuss your child's symptoms with you. They may also carry out a number of tests to make a diagnosis, such as an X-ray or MRI scan.
Potential treatment options icon plus

Your consultant will discuss your child's back pain treatment options, which are likely to vary depending on the nature and extent of your child's symptoms. They might include back pain medication or physiotherapy.

Lower back pain

The Spine is made up of 24 bones called vertebrae and between each is a disc which acts a shock absorber in the spinal column. Sometimes these discs can wear out and press on the spinal cord or nerves causing lower back pain

More about lower back pain

Our back pain consultants

We're proud to work with leading spinal, neurosurgical and rheumatology experts who specialise in back pain, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex paediatric surgery to test and diagnostic procedures, we provide exceptional paediatric care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

The Portland Hospital

205 - 209 Great Portland Street

London

W1W 5AH

Children's enquiries 020 7390 8020
Maternity enquiries 020 7390 6068
Gynaecology enquiries 020 7390 6200
Institute of Sport Exercise and Health

170 Tottenham Court Road

London

W1T 7HA

Call 020 3447 2800
[Mon | Weds | Fri] 8am - 8pm
[Tues | Thurs] 8am - 8pm

Request an appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

020 7079 4344

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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.