What is an indicator that conservative treatment for back pain is ineffective?

The indicator that conservative treatment for back pain is ineffective is persistent or worsening symptoms despite management. This suggests that the treatment strategies being used, which commonly include rest, physical therapy, medication, and other non-invasive methods, are not producing the desired results. When a patient continues to experience significant pain or finds that their symptoms are getting worse after following these conservative approaches, it may indicate that the underlying issue requires a different treatment strategy, potentially involving more invasive interventions or further diagnostic evaluation.

In contrast, symptom improvement after two weeks indicates that the conservative treatment is effective, while occasional discomfort during activity could be a normal part of recovery. Feeling better after some movement also suggests that the body is responding positively to the conservative treatment, supporting ongoing conservative care rather than indicating ineffectiveness.