Lower back pain is a common experience and affects most people at some point in their lives. Causes of lower back pain can vary from a minor muscle strain to something more severe like a herniated disc.

Here are some situations when you should be concerned about lower back pain:.

1. If the pain is severe and constant

If lower back pain is so severe and constant, you cannot move, it could be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Such severe pain might be a symptom of a herniated disc, kidney stones, or spinal stenosis.

You should consider visiting your doctor if you have severe and constant pain in your back that makes movement difficult.

2. If the pain is accompanied by fever

Lower back pain accompanying a fever might indicate an infection in your kidneys, which can be a serious concern. An infection can also lead to an inflammation of your spinal cord.

This condition, known as spinal meningitis, requires immediate medical attention.

3. If the pain does not improve after a few days

It’s common to experience some lower back pain, especially after strenuous physical activity. However, if the pain does not improve after a few days of rest, you should be concerned.

You should visit your doctor if the pain persists even after taking painkillers or if the pain has not improved after seven days of rest.

4. If you have a history of cancer

If you have a history of cancer, lower back pain could be a sign that the cancer has spread to your bones or spine. Cancer cells can weaken bones, leading to fractures and spinal collapses, which can cause severe lower back pain.

If the pain is sudden and you have a history of cancer, consider seeking medical attention.

5. If the pain is accompanied by other symptoms

If you are experiencing lower back pain accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness or tingling in your legs, weakness in your arms or legs, difficulty controlling bowel or bladder movements or weight loss, you should be concerned.

These symptoms could be due to a serious condition that is affecting your spine, muscles, or nerves. You should visit your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

6. If the pain occurred as a result of trauma

If lower back pain occurs as a result of trauma such as a car accident, fall, or injury, seek medical attention immediately. Trauma can cause fractures, sprains, or strains in the spine, leading to severe lower back pain.

If you are experiencing severe pain or are unable to move after a traumatic accident, call your doctor or emergency medical services immediately.

7. If the pain is a recurring issue

If lower back pain is a recurring issue for you, it could be a sign of an underlying condition that is not being addressed. Visiting your doctor will help determine the root cause of the problem.

Depending on the cause, your doctor may offer treatment, recommend lifestyle changes, or offer referrals to specialists.

8. If the pain interferes with daily activities

If lower back pain interferes with your daily activities such as lifting things, walking, or bending, you should be concerned. It is a sign that the pain is severe enough to impact your quality of life.

You should visit your doctor to receive proper treatment so that you can resume normal activities without pain.

9. If you experience loss of muscle strength or coordination

If lower back pain is accompanied by a loss of muscle control or coordination, it can be due to a nerve problem in your spine. This condition, known as cauda equina syndrome, is rare but requires immediate medical attention.

If you are experiencing this issue, seek medical attention immediately.

10. If the pain does not improve with treatment

If lower back pain does not improve with self-treatment or prescribed medicine, you should be concerned. Be sure to communicate this to your doctor. They may recommend additional tests or treatments to determine the root cause of your pain.

Conclusion

Lower back pain is a common issue but can sometimes be a sign of something more severe. If you experience any of the above signs, it’s essential to seek medical attention to prevent the condition from worsening.

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health.