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What Your Symptoms Indicate
Many back problems can get better on their own or with nonsurgical treatment. The key is to understand what various symptoms mean and which are emergencies and need to be seen immediately by a spine specialist.
Pain in the arm
When pain radiates into the arm, the problem is serious and should be treated by a spine pecialist within 48 hours. This may involve weaknss, tingling or numbness in the hand. As a rule of thum, the further down the arm that the pain radiates, the more serious the problem.
Low back pain
Pain exclusively in the low back can often be caused by muscle strain. While these acute episodes of pain can be excruciating, you may not need surgery. The best treatment for this pain is usually customized therapy with a spine therapist.
Below the knee
When pain radiates below the knee, within a week see a spine specialist.
Loss of bowel or bladder control
If you experience loss of bowel or bladder control, go to the emergency room or see a spine doctor within 24 hours. If not seen immediately, the person may lose control over bowel and bladder permanently.
Do you have any of these symptoms: fever, drowsiness, severe headache, nausea or vomiting, bright lights bother your eyes? Go to an Emergency Room or make a same day appointment with a spine doctor.
Neck pain
Pain in the neck can be caused by a traumatic injury, like whiplash from a car accident, or more simply from muscle or ligament strain.
Leg pain
When pain shoots down the leg, the problem is serious and should be treated by a spine specialist. Pain that shoots into the leg can be an indication of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine. As a rule of thumb, the further down the leg that the pain radiates, the more serious the condition.
Foot drop
If pain, weakness or numbness extends into the foot so that you are unable to lift it, see a spine specialist within 24 hours. If not treated immeditely, it can lead to a permanent weakness in the leg.
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