There are many different conditions and causes of back pain.  A thorough medical history should be performed by your doctor as part of your examination.  Your doctor should ask you several questions about the onset of your back pain.  (Did the pain come on suddenly?  Was it the result of a fall, or lifting a heavy object, or physical activity?)  Your doctor should ask you if you feel relief from the pain when you are resting, laying down, or if it is better when you are up moving around.  They should ask you about any recent illnesses, fevers, stomach conditions, cramping or any other physical symptoms that are not common in your every day activities.  A person who is older than 65 and experiencing  back pain should see their doctor as they have an increased chance of cancer, infections and abdominal conditions.  If you have unexplained weight loss, a temperature over 101, or lower back pain when resting, with chronic back pain, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.