It's always a good idea to go to a doctor with back pain. The best thing that can happen is that the doc will refer you to physical therapy.
I suffered with lower back pain for a year before giving up and going to the doctor - who promptly referred me to physical therapy. A couple of months of PT and I was sooo much better and have been really good for the last 1 1/2 year.
My therapists used the McKenzie system, a group of exercises targeted at the back. You can buy the book, "Treat Your Own Back" by Robin McKenzie. I loaned the book to my friend's husband last year and he followed the exercises and did not go to the doctor, and his back responded well to the exercises. Please know though, that I am not recommending that you NOT go to the doctor!
Good luck! I know that back pain is very hard to deal with!
__________________ Rex & Rowdy's Mom |