When Is Back Pain Serious?
Updated: Nov 2
How do I know if my back pain is serious?
Look at how long it has lasted, whether it travels down an arm or leg, and whether it's improving with care. Pain lasting over a couple of weeks or radiating deserves an exam. Emergency signs, like loss of bladder control, need medical care right away.
When should I go to the ER for back pain?
See a medical doctor or go to the ER right away if back pain comes with:
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
Fever, or a hard fall or accident
Worsening leg weakness
How long is too long to have back pain?
In my experience, back pain that has bothered you for more than a couple of weeks usually isn't going to clear up on its own.
What does it mean if back pain travels down my leg?
Radiating pain gives clues about its source:
Where the nerve-like pain goes | Common source to check |
|---|---|
Front of the thigh | L3–L4 disc |
Back of the thigh | L5–S1 disc |
There are other explanations, so leave diagnosis to a chiropractor, not the internet. If you've been diagnosed with sciatica, read Sciatica and Chiropractic Care.
What if chiropractic care isn't helping?
I use a six-week standard. If your pain isn't starting to resolve after six weeks of fully following your plan for care, I worry something more serious is going on and refer for an MRI or CT scan. Most insurers require a trial of conservative care before paying for an MRI.
Should I see a chiropractor for back pain?
If it's keeping you from what you love, get it examined. Chiropractic care is a common, conservative first choice.
Call us at 763-553-0387 or book online. Voted Best Chiropractic Clinic in Plymouth, 2024 Sun Newspapers Readers' Choice Awards.
FAQ
When should I get back pain checked?
If it lasts over a couple of weeks or travels down a leg.
What are back pain red flags?
Loss of bladder or bowel control, groin numbness, fever, or pain after a fall. Get care right away.
Does pain down the front of my thigh mean a disc problem?
It can point to L3–L4; the back of the thigh often points to L5–S1. Only an exam can tell.
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