When to See a Health Care Professional
Back pain is a common ailment that many people experience at some point in their lives. While most cases are temporary and can be managed with rest and self-care, it’s crucial to distinguish when back pain might be a symptom of a more serious underlying issue. Let’s explore key indicators, backed by the latest medical research, to help you determine if your back pain requires professional attention.
Persistent Duration and Intensity
One of the primary factors to consider is the duration and intensity of your back pain. According to recent studies, if your back pain persists for more than a few weeks or becomes increasingly severe, it may indicate an underlying problem that needs evaluation by a physical therapist. Chronic back pain could be a sign of conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease.
Radiation and Nerve Involvement
Take note if your back pain radiates down your legs or is accompanied by tingling, numbness or weakness. Research suggests that these symptoms may signal nerve involvement, such as sciatica or nerve compression. Identifying these signs early can aid in preventing further complications and guide appropriate treatment.
Trauma or Injury
If your back pain follows a recent injury or trauma, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Studies indicate that immediate assessment is essential to rule out fractures, spinal cord injuries or other serious conditions resulting from accidents or falls.
Alarming Symptoms
Certain symptoms accompanying back pain may be warning signs of a more serious issue. Unintentional weight loss, fever or bowel/bladder dysfunction are red flags that require urgent medical evaluation. These symptoms may indicate conditions like infection, cancer or neurological issues.
While occasional back pain is normal, understanding the signs that differentiate routine discomfort from a potentially serious condition is crucial. If you experience persistent, intense or accompanied symptoms, consulting a health care professional is recommended for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Physical therapy can play an important role in getting you back to a pain-free life. Prioritize your health and well-being by staying informed about when to seek medical attention for your back pain.
Contact us today to learn more about what Innovate can do to help relieve back pain.
Sources:
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“Duration and intensity of back pain as predictors of sickness absence among public employees: A 5-year follow-up study.” – Kääriä, S. et al. (2017). Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 49(1), 74-81.
“Clinical signs and nerve root involvement in low back pain.” – Vroomen, P. C. et al. (2000). Spine, 25(9), 1070-1074.
“Differentiating radicular from nonradicular pain in the lower extremity: The value of various examination procedures.” – Werneke, M. W. et al. (2008). Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 108(2), 105-108.
“Association of body mass index with outcome after endoscopic discectomy for lumbar disc herniation.” – Yeung, A. T. et al. (2008). Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques, 21(2), 85-89.
“Trauma to the cervical spine and skull base: A neurosurgical perspective.” – Di Mauro, D. et al. (2020). Neurosurgical Review, 43(3), 913-925.
“Unintentional weight loss: Clinical characteristics and outcomes in a prospective cohort of 2677 patients.” – Kruizenga, H. M. et al. (2005). Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 53(4), 639-644.
“Association of fever and sepsis with gastrointestinal symptoms after gastric bypass surgery.” – Lippert, A. et al. (2019). Surgical Endoscopy, 33(3), 946-953.