Many issues, ranging from poor posture and overuse to injury and underlying medical conditions, that cause back pain. While most back pain is not severe and can be managed with rest, exercise, and over-the-counter pain medication, some types of back pain can indicate a more serious underlying issue and require a consultation with a back specialist. Here are some signs that your back pain may be severe and require medical attention.
Here are some signs that tell you your back pain is serious:
Persistent Pain
If your back pain has persisted for over a few weeks, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. If your pain is persistent, seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis is essential. Chronic pain may worsen and become debilitating. Back pain that spreads down your legs may be a sign of sciatica, a condition affecting the sciatic nerve. Sciatica can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs and is often a sign of a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
Urinary and Fecal Incontinence
If you experience back pain along with problems with bowel or bladder control, you might have issues such as spinal cord compression. Associated symptoms are weakness in the limbs and significant weight loss. You should see your back specialist if you experience these.
Trauma
Trauma is another sign that your back pain requires urgent medical care. A recent trauma, such as a car accident or fall, may result in back pain, either as a direct impact or as a result of other issues. Trauma can cause various serious back injuries, including fractures and dislocations. Traumas may trigger fever and local inflammation. Fever may also arise from spinal abscess or osteomyelitis, or spinal infection.
Do you have any of these symptoms? You should visit a back specialist as soon as possible. Your doctor will perform a thorough examination, including medical history and physical examination.
