My partner is 22 years old, never been diagnosed with any type of back problem or been in any kind of accident that's caused him to need prescription pills to treat his back pain. He gets norcos and vicodin from his mother, he's admitted to me that he has an issue with pills, he's even admitted at times that he agrees when I tell him those who abuse them often justify it by saying they're in pain and need them. We've been fighting a lot about this, as I am clean and do not want him abusing drugs. He says he takes them to help with his back pain. He works 25-30 hours a week at subway. I'm not buying that that's why he takes them. I've even told him it's a fellony and illegal for his mom to not only give them to him, but for him to be taking someone else's prescription. So he's claiming he'd going to get medical insurance and get his own prescription so that he can take them legally for his "back pain". My question is, how much pain does a 22 year old have if he's never had a back related injury and no genetic related back disorder such as scoliosis, etc.

While just standing at work can cause some pain, the answer is not self diagnosing his own symptoms, or using the meds prescribed for another. Yes he could be hooked, and if he isn't willing to get some help, or can't afford a doctor, Narcotics Anonymous is good alternative help, if he wants it.

Using some one else's meds, IS abuse.

He may have all sorts of back pain, and needs to see a doctor for it, there are several possible choices.

He is breaking the law using his moms drugs and can be fired from work, arrested or worst.