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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services or go to an emergency department now if back pain occurs with:
New loss of bladder or bowel control
Numbness around the genitals, anus, or inner thighs
Rapidly worsening weakness or numbness in both legs
Severe chest or abdominal pain, fainting, or marked breathlessness
A major fall, crash, or other high-force injury
These symptoms may indicate serious pressure on nerves, a major injury, or another condition needing immediate assessment.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek same-day medical advice if you have fever or feel significantly unwell with back pain, particularly after a recent infection, operation, spinal procedure, or injection.
Prompt assessment is also important for new back pain with a weakened immune system.
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if the pain is not improving after several weeks, keeps returning, disrupts sleep or daily activities, or is accompanied by ongoing leg pain, numbness, or weakness.
Arrange an earlier review if you have unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, osteoporosis, or long-term steroid medicine use.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Low back pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.