Jack Stern. Ending Back Pain. Avery, 2014.

Ending Back Pain was written for everyone struggling with lower back pain. This book is thorough. At the same time, it reminds us there may not be easy answers.

Unlike pain in other parts of the body, lower back pain can be hard to diagnose. Even if we know exactly that a certain injury caused the pain, solutions may be hard to find. The pain that does not come from an injury might be caused by sciatica, by discs, or maybe even a kidney.

Because I am not a medical professional, there are things in Ending Back Pain I am not qualified to judge. The book, however, is written for the layperson and there a couple of things that make this book stand out.

First, the author is an experienced back surgeon. He tells many stories about people with sore backs. He also warns that many times surgery does not help. Many times diagnoses, even if correct, do not tell the whole story. For example, even when a bad disc shows up on an x-ray, disc surgery may not solve the problem of the pain.

Second, Dr. Stern detail many things the patient should do to become his own advocate, or the advocate of a friend or relative. Ask questions. Try less complicated solutions first. Because back pain can affect our ability to work or to do things we used to do, there may be a psychological element—not the the pain is merely “in your head,” but that frustration or chronic pain can be depressing.

This book describes in everyday language most of the likely causes of back pain. It discusses various therapies, surgeries, and medications. Dr. Stern expressed skepticism over a few techniques, but he notes that even exotic techniques work for some people. His overall perspective could be summed up by “Whatever works.” The challenge is finding that “whatever.”

He also shares some helpful exercises that can help relieve back pain and strengthen the core muscles.

I have been pretty fortunate. Dr. Stern notes that most back problems, especially those caused by injuries or strains, heal or resolve themselves after about six week. I am no longer especially young, but my experience has been similar. However, I have a friend who is contemplating back surgery. She is unsure about it because of the invasive nature of the surgery. I will be passing this book onto her. Any reader in a position like hers should get this book and read it. It is honest, not sanguine. It provides encouragement but does not promise miracles. It is the real deal.