Closeup rear low angle view of an early 60's senior gentleman having some back pain. He's at doctor's office having medical examination by a male doctor. The patient is pointing to his lumbar region.
If you experience persistent or severe back pain for more than a week, seek professional evaluation as early as possible. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by numbness, radiating sensations, or bowel and bladder control issues. Such conditions may stem from nerve problems and require the expertise of an experienced back doctor for a comprehensive diagnosis. Here are a few signs of spinal issues and when to visit a doctor:
Persistent Pain
Pain in your back is often a sign of an injury to muscles, joints, soft tissues, or nerves. The pain may be caused by poor posture or wear and tear caused by injury or overuse. Underlying conditions vary from a herniated disc to spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease. Temporary pain usually heals on its own, especially when caused by strain or poor posture.
Sometimes the pain is persistent and requires a professional diagnosis from a back doctor. If the pain persists for more than a few days, it may be due to underlying conditions that require more advanced treatment. Persistent pain requires early intervention to prevent the issue from escalating. Unresolved back pain can also disrupt your sleep and daily activities, leading to reduced productivity and other health complications.
Radiating Discomfort
Back pain that shoots down one leg is often referred to as sciatica and stems from a herniated disc or a pinched nerve in your lumbar or cervical spine. Radiating pain that travels down the legs, arms, or other parts of your body is a serious sign that requires prompt intervention. Compressed or irritated nerves can’t function optimally and may lead to tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.
You may also experience difficulty lifting objects or loss of grip strength. In severe cases, muscle and joint weakness can result in frequent tripping. These signs signal worsening spinal conditions and require further inspection through imaging tests. Underlying issues like misalignment or disc problems may lead to nerves being trapped and compressed, impacting motor function. A doctor will address these issues and prescribe appropriate treatment solutions, such as exercises, medications, or surgery.
Posture Changes
Poor posture, visible curves in your back, and uneven shoulders may signal back or spinal issues. Changes in alignment can lead to leaning on one side, which is a sign of scoliosis and other spinal deformities. If you notice changes in your alignment, seek prompt medical attention to avoid further damage to your back muscles, spinal discs, and joints. Poor posture can lead to overuse or strain of specific muscles and joints, resulting in persistent pain. A doctor will evaluate your lifestyle and gait to recommend practices that restore balance and reduce strain. They also prescribe medication to reduce pain and inflammation.
Sudden Pain
Traumatic events, such as accidents, falls, and other impact injuries, can cause back pain. If you’ve experienced impact trauma, seek a comprehensive diagnosis and medical prognosis to understand your injuries. Back pain that develops after trauma requires immediate evaluation to identify damage to the spine, nerves, and muscles.
Early evaluation allows doctors to prevent further damage and restore normal function. Be aware of the sudden onset of symptoms, including sharp pain, weakness, and numbness. These signs may indicate a disc rupture or nerve impingement, which requires prompt medical attention. Seek a doctor as soon as you experience any pain or discomfort in your back or sensations that radiate down the body after traumatic events like car accidents or sports injuries.
Speak to a Back Doctor Today
Back pain is often a result of injury or damage to muscles, nerves, joints, and bones along your spine. Some injuries are traumatic, while others occur gradually over time due to natural wear and tear or overuse. Although the pain may subside, a professional diagnosis allows you to be proactive and prevent further damage. Consult a back doctor today to learn more about your condition and available treatment options.
About the Author
