Husbands back been hurting last few days and now when he coughs his upper thigh hurts. he seems to be in a lot of pain and he doesn't usually complain?

Back pain: He may have strained his back and now every movement such as cough causes pain. He may have sciatica - irritation of the sciatic nerve which manifests itself with low back pain radiating to one of the lower extremities. Movements, cough, sneezing would cause worsening pain. Staying active without overdoing is needed. Ibuprofen or Naproxen can be tried. Stretching exercises as tolerated.