Almost everyone experiences back pain at some point for a variety of different reasons such as long hours at a desk, a tough workout, or sleeping in the wrong position. In some cases however, back pain is more than just a pulled muscle or poor posture. It could signal an underlying condition. Here are some signs that it could be something more serious:

• Pain that Radiates Down the Legs: Pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from your lower back to your legs may indicate nerve compression which if left untreated can cause permanent nerve damage or muscle weakness.
• Sudden, Severe Pain After an Injury or Fall: If your back pain starts suddenly after an accident or fall, it could be due to a fracture, slipped disc, or ligament damage. People who suffer from osteoporosis are at more of a risk for compression fractures and should seek help immediately. 
• Pain that Lasts Longer than a Few Weeks: If your back pain continues for more than 4-6 weeks, it may signal an issue beyond muscle strain. Chronic pain can indicate conditions such as degenerative disc disease or spinal misalignment.