Warning Signs That You Need to See a Doctor for Your Back

Back pain is incredibly common—most of us experience it at some point. Often, it improves with rest, gentle movement, and simple self-care. But sometimes, back pain can signal something more serious that requires professional evaluation.

At MyBackHub, we help people navigate back pain with expert guidance and personalized nonoperative treatments, but emergencies can happen. Knowing when to see a doctor can make all the difference in getting the right care early and avoiding complications.

Here are key warning signs that mean it’s time to seek medical attention for your back pain.

1. Severe or Worsening Pain

If your back pain is intense, getting worse over days or weeks, and/or preventing you from doing everyday activities within a short time span of its onset, don’t wait it out. Severe, acute, pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers may require evaluation and treatment.

2. Pain Radiating Down Your Legs

Pain that travels down one or both legs—sometimes described as shooting, burning, or tingling—can be a sign of nerve involvement, such as sciatica. This could indicate a herniated disc or spinal stenosis that needs attention. Many times this may still be able to be treated nonoperatively, but a health professional should be seen to determine if an MRI would be helpful.

3. Numbness, Tingling, or Weakness

If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs, feet, or groin area, it could signal nerve compression such as that in cauda equina syndrome (CES). Particularly if you have progressive and bilateral leg weakness. These symptoms warrant prompt medical assessment to prevent permanent nerve damage.

4. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

This is a serious red flag. Difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, or numbness in the saddle area (around your groin and inner thighs), may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency requiring immediate care.

5. Back Pain After Trauma

If your back pain started after a fall, accident, or injury—even if it seems mild—it’s important to get evaluated to rule out fractures or other damage.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fever

Back pain accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fever, or chills can indicate an infection or other serious systemic conditions that need medical investigation.

7. Pain That Wakes You at Night

Back pain that worsens at night or wakes you from sleep should be evaluated, especially if it’s persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

8. History of Cancer or Osteoporosis

If you have a history of cancer or osteoporosis and develop new or worsening back pain, see a doctor. These conditions increase the risk of spinal fractures or cancer spread to the spine.

What to Expect When You See a Doctor

When you see a physician, physician assistant, or other medical professional you should receive:

• Thorough assessment of your symptoms and medical history

• Education about your condition and prognosis

• Guidance on if/when when imaging or further tests might be necessary

• Follow up directions on if/when emergency evaluation is required

Don’t Ignore Your Back Pain

While most back pain improves with time and conservative care, these warning signs mean it’s time to get professional help. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and get you back to the activities you love.

About the Author:

Rob Turk, MD, MBA
Chief Medical Advisor, MyBackHub

Rob Turk is the Chief Medical Advisor for MyBackHub, Inc. Dr. Turk has a broad foundation of talent in both medicine and business, previously obtaining his MD at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and his MBA at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. As an entrepreneur and orthopaedic spine surgeon, he has unique and valuable insight on many topics. He is a published author in leading scientific journals such as JBJS and Arthroscopy, has written multiple book chapters, and has been a reviewer for a number of scientific journals. He is passionate about motion preservation and innovation in spine care, health equity, delicious food, and sports.

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