When to See a Doctor for Back Pain

Back pain is an extremely common ailment, affecting roughly 80% of adults at some point in their lives. It can range from dull and aching to sharp and shooting, and cause stiffness, difficulty bending and walking, and tingling or numbness.

In most cases, back pain will resolve on its own with at-home remedies. However, there are instances when back pain requires emergency medical attention or, more commonly, a visit to the doctor.

When to See a Spine Specialist

If any of the following apply to your back pain, it’s important to consult a spine specialist. These dedicated healthcare providers can determine the cause of your pain and offer appropriate treatments.

• Persistent Pain – If your back pain lasts longer than 1-2 weeks despite home care, such as rest, ice, heat and over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.
• Severe Pain – If your back pain is constant and unbearable, and it doesn’t improve with rest, or it wakes you up in the middle of the night, or worsens when lying down.
• Radiating Pain – If your back pain radiates into your buttocks, or shoots down one or both legs, especially if it extends below the knee.
• Pain with Weakness, Numbness or Tingling – If your back pain is accompanied by sensations of numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms or legs.

In addition to the above, if your back pain is coupled with sudden weight loss that can’t be explained by diet or lifestyle changes, a visit to your primary care physician can rule out a more serious condition, such as infection or tumor.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Care

If any of the following apply to your back pain, go to your local emergency room or call 911.

• Pain following Trauma – If your back pain occurs after a car accident, fall or sports injury, you could have a more serious issue, such as a fracture that needs to be addressed.
• Pain with Fever – If you have back pain with a fever, it could suggest an infection that needs treatment, especially if the fever does not respond to over-the-counter medications.
• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control – If you are unable to control your bowels or bladder, or if you are unable to pass stool or urinate, it could be cauda equina syndrome – a rare, but serious condition, where the nerves in the lower spine are paralyzed and can become permanent if left untreated.

Treatment for Back Pain in Newport News, VA

While most cases of back pain are acute and resolve on their own, chronic back pain and pain accompanied by other symptoms, warrants a trip to the doctor. The spine specialists at Orthopaedic & Spine Center in Newport News, VA can evaluate your condition, offer appropriate treatments to help alleviate your pain, and refer you to a physical therapist or pain management specialist, if needed.

To request an appointment with our spine specialists in Newport News, VA, use our online scheduling tool, or call 757-596-1900.