We all experience occasional aches and pains, especially in the muscles around our backs. There are many things that can set off back pain, such as an intense workout or a night of sleeping in an uncomfortable position. However, while some minor aches are normal, you should seek medical help if your symptoms escalate or if you experience injuries. Here are some of the telltale signs you should seek help when you feel back pain.
You Experience Long-Lasting Pain
In most cases, standard back pain will subside within a week or two with home treatment and over-the-counter medications. However, if your back pain lasts longer than a week of home treatment, you may want to consider seeking professional treatment. Long-term pain can make it difficult to complete your daily activities and delay big plans. While you can wait to see if mild pain clears up, don’t wait to seek medical help if you experience severe back pain. One way to pursue help for long-lasting pain can be to visit a pain management specialist and learn about custom treatment options to help ease your pain.
You Have Pain That Extends to Other Areas
Another sign that you should seek help for back pain is when that pain spreads to other parts of your body. When back pain spreads throughout your back or to other areas, such as your legs or arms, schedule an office visit with a pain specialist or your primary care physician. If you have numbness or tingling in your arms or legs, doctors will often refer you to a chiropractor, physical therapist, or another specialist. These experts can home in on your pain and its causes. From here, they will recommend more effective home treatment options, prescribe medications, and take other steps to expedite your recovery.
An Accident or Injury Triggered Your Pain
The most telltale sign that it’s time to seek medical help for back pain is when an accident or injury triggers your pain. Don’t wait to seek professional help or visit an emergency room if your pain is trauma-related, such as from a car accident or work injury. Severe back pain can also occur with other symptoms, such as bowel and bladder control issues or a fever. If you experience these symptoms together, seek medical help immediately, as they could indicate more serious issues.
Now that you know the signs that you should seek help for your back pain, you can get to the source of the issue faster. Professional back pain specialists can help you learn the activities or prescribe medications to get you back to your full strength faster.
