Subacute back pain duration is defined as pain lasting between which weeks?

• A. 6-12 Weeks
• B. 2-4 Weeks
• C. 3-6 Months
• D. 1 Year

Answer: (A)

Subacute back pain is the period after the initial acute phase and before chronic pain. It is defined as pain lasting roughly six to twelve weeks. This window sits after the typical acute period (up to about six weeks) and before chronic pain (beyond twelve weeks). Six to twelve weeks best fits this transitional phase. Shorter durations like two to four weeks are still acute, while longer durations such as three to six months or a full year align with chronic pain. Understanding this helps guide management toward maintaining activity, structured rehabilitation, and re-evaluation if symptoms persist beyond twelve weeks.