1. Which of these common remedies is LEAST likely to ease back pain?

a. Extended bed rest
b. Ice pack
c. Regular doses of aspirin
d. Heating pad

2. How long should most people with back pain wait before returning to their normal activities?

a. As little as possible
b. One week
c. Two weeks
d. One month

3. How long should most people with back pain uncomplicated by fever, numbness, or another warning sign wait before seeing a doctor?

a. Three days
b. One week
c. Three weeks
d. Six weeks

4. Exercises can help prevent backaches, but they probably won't ease a sudden bout of pain.

True
False

5. Self-care is usually ineffective for sciatica -- pain that shoots from the back to a leg -- making surgery the only real option for relief.

True
False

6. If you're slightly overweight, you can probably blame your back pain on those extra pounds.

True
False