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Warning-sign checks

Chronic low back pain: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services or go to an emergency department if back pain occurs with:

    • New difficulty starting urination or loss of bladder or bowel control
    • New numbness around the genitals, anus, or inner thighs
    • Rapidly worsening weakness or numbness in both legs
    • Back pain after a major accident, especially with difficulty moving

    These symptoms can indicate serious pressure on nerves at the base of the spine.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical advice for severe back pain with fever, chills, or feeling very unwell.

    Prompt assessment is also important after a minor injury if you have osteoporosis, use long-term steroid medicine, or are older and frail.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if pain lasts more than three months, worsens, interrupts sleep, or limits daily life.

    Arrange follow-up for persistent leg numbness or weakness, unexplained weight loss, or pain that is not improving as expected.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a symptom that has lasted more than a couple of weeks without improving

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Chronic low back pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.