Back pain is one of the most common complaints people have, affecting nearly 80% of the population at some point in their lives. For many, the discomfort is temporary and can be managed with rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, or basic stretching. However, in some cases, back pain can be a sign of something more serious that requires medical attention. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist, emphasizes that knowing when to seek professional care is crucial to preventing long-term damage and finding the appropriate treatment.
In this post, we’ll explore five signs that indicate it’s time to call a doctor for your back pain. Understanding these warning signs can help you take control of your health and ensure that your back pain doesn’t become a more significant issue down the road.
1. Pain That Won’t Go Away or Gets Worse
One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to see a doctor is when your back pain persists for longer than expected. Dr. Sudberg explains that while minor back pain can be common and often resolves within a few days to a week, pain that lingers or intensifies over time should not be ignored.
“If your back pain lasts longer than a few weeks, or if it becomes more severe despite rest and home remedies, it could be a sign of a more serious condition,” says Dr. Sudberg. Persistent pain may indicate issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or muscle imbalances that need medical evaluation and treatment.
2. Pain Radiating Down Your Legs or Numbness
If your back pain radiates down one or both legs, or if you experience numbness or weakness in your legs, Dr. Sudberg advises seeking medical care immediately. This type of pain may be a symptom of sciatica, which occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the legs, is compressed or irritated.
Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disc or other spinal conditions and can lead to further complications if left untreated. Dr. Sudberg highlights that numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs could indicate nerve damage, which requires prompt medical intervention to prevent permanent nerve impairment.
“When you have pain that radiates down the legs or affects your ability to move or feel your lower extremities, it’s critical to consult a doctor right away to prevent any long-term nerve damage,” Dr. Sudberg advises.
3. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
A more serious sign that your back pain requires immediate medical attention is the loss of bladder or bowel control. This can be a sign of a serious spinal issue like cauda equina syndrome, which occurs when the nerve roots at the end of the spinal cord are compressed. This condition is a medical emergency and needs urgent treatment to avoid permanent paralysis or loss of function.
Dr. Sudberg stresses that if you experience sudden incontinence, difficulty urinating, or a complete inability to control your bladder or bowel movements, you should seek immediate care. “Cauda equina syndrome can cause irreversible damage if not addressed quickly,” he explains. If you notice any of these symptoms alongside back pain, don’t wait—call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fever
Back pain accompanied by unexplained weight loss or fever could indicate an underlying medical condition such as an infection or even cancer. For instance, a spinal infection (osteomyelitis) or an infection of the discs (discitis) can cause localized back pain, fever, and other systemic symptoms. Similarly, certain cancers like multiple myeloma or metastatic cancer can present with back pain as one of the first symptoms.
Dr. Sudberg explains, “If your back pain is associated with significant weight loss or fever, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional as these could be signs of an infection or a more severe condition that requires immediate attention.” Don’t ignore these red flags, as they may point to a systemic issue that needs urgent treatment.
5. Severe Pain After an Injury or Accident
If your back pain is the result of a fall, car accident, or other trauma, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Severe or sudden back pain following an injury may be a sign of a fractured vertebra, spinal cord injury, or other structural damage. These injuries may not always be immediately obvious but could have serious consequences if left untreated.
Dr. Jordan Sudberg recommends that any back pain that follows a significant accident or trauma should be evaluated by a medical professional. “Even if the pain seems mild at first, it’s important to rule out fractures or spinal cord injuries, which can lead to long-term complications if not addressed immediately,” he adds.
What to Expect When You See a Doctor for Back Pain
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, Dr. Sudberg recommends seeking medical attention sooner rather than later. When you visit a doctor for back pain, you can expect a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- A physical examination to assess your posture, reflexes, and range of motion
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to identify issues with the spine, discs, or nerves
- Blood tests to rule out infection or inflammatory conditions
- A detailed medical history to identify possible underlying causes of your pain
Your doctor may also perform additional tests or refer you to a pain management specialist like Dr. Sudberg, who can develop a tailored treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your back pain.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait to Seek Help
While many cases of back pain can be managed with self-care, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes that recognizing the warning signs of serious back conditions can make all the difference in preventing long-term damage and improving your quality of life.
If you experience persistent pain, radiating leg pain, loss of bladder control, unexplained symptoms like fever or weight loss, or severe pain following an injury, don’t hesitate to call a doctor. Early intervention is key to managing back pain effectively and ensuring that you’re on the right path to recovery. Remember, your back is a vital part of your body, and taking care of it with the right medical advice is crucial for long-term health and well-being.