Back pain in children and adolescents.

Back pain in children is a common problem that is infrequently reported to physicians. Persistent back pain in children is serious, and most conditions can be diagnosed with relatively simple tests, including diagnostic plain radiographs and bone scans. Many cases, including strains and sprains, are relieved with rest and decreased activity. If persistent back pain, increasing pain, fever, or neurologic deficit is present, referral to the orthopedic surgeon should be swift until a specific cause can be found and treated.