8 Signs You Should See a Doctor for Your Back Pain

Back pain affects up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives. In many cases, it improves with rest, activity modification, or over-the-counter medication. However, certain symptoms may signal an underlying condition that should not be ignored.

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I see a doctor for this back pain?” the following signs can help guide that decision.

8 Reasons to Get Your Back Pain Checked On

1. Pain That Does Not Improve

Back pain that lasts longer than a week despite rest, ice, or medication may indicate more than a simple muscle strain. Pain that continues for six weeks or longer is considered chronic and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

A primary care doctor can assess your symptoms and refer you to physical therapy, orthopedics, neurology, or another specialist if needed.

2. Pain That Radiates Down the Leg or Arm

Pain that travels down the leg or into the arm often suggests nerve involvement. Conditions such as a herniated disc, pinched nerve, or spinal stenosis may cause this type of radiating pain.

Delaying evaluation can increase the risk of long-term nerve irritation or damage.

3. Tingling, Numbness, or Muscle Weakness

Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, legs, hands, or feet can be a sign of nerve compression. These symptoms may worsen over time and should be assessed early to prevent progression.

4. Back Pain After a Fall or Accident

Back pain that begins after a fall, car accident, or other injury should never be ignored. Trauma can lead to fractures, ligament injuries, or spinal damage, even when symptoms seem mild at first.

Older adults are especially vulnerable, as spinal fractures can occur from low-impact falls.

5. Pain That Gets Worse at Night

Back pain that intensifies when lying down or repeatedly wakes you from sleep may point to disc problems, inflammation, or other conditions requiring further evaluation.

Pain should typically improve with rest. If it does not, medical assessment is recommended.

6. Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control

Back pain accompanied by difficulty controlling bowel or bladder function may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition.

This is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss combined with back pain may signal infection, inflammation, or, in rare cases, a spinal tumor. Your doctor may recommend imaging studies or blood tests to determine the cause.

8. Fever Along With Back Pain

A persistent fever paired with back pain could indicate a spinal or systemic infection, especially if accompanied by fatigue, chills, or stiffness.

If fever does not respond to medication or continues for more than a day or two, seek medical care promptly.

When Should You See a Doctor for Back Pain?

If you are unsure whether your symptoms require medical attention, it is better to be evaluated early. Prompt care can help prevent complications and lead to faster, more effective treatment.

Expert Back Pain Care at BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, we provide comprehensive, personalized care for back pain, whether it is acute, chronic, or injury-related. Our providers offer access to:

• Diagnostic imaging, including X-rays and MRI
• Physical therapy referrals
• Non-surgical and surgical treatment options
• Medication management and pain control

Schedule an appointment today to identify the cause of your back pain and begin a treatment plan tailored to your needs.