Back pain affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. In fact, it is the greatest cause of disability globally and the most prevalent reason for people to call in sick. Back pain could manifest itself in various ways, from a dull aching that lasts several days to extreme discomfort that lasts weeks. Based on the intensity of your pain, there is a range of at-home therapies you can attempt. Nevertheless, how do you recognize when to quit using home cures and consult a doctor? If any of the following describe your back pain, schedule a consultation with a Red Bank back pain specialist right away:
You Have Been in Excruciating Pain for More Than a Week
Most back discomfort will fade away within several days. However, if you have been in pain for more than a week, you should see a physician. Your specialist will do any necessary tests or exams to determine the source of your discomfort before it becomes a greater issue. As with many other health issues, avoiding and fixing issues early is critical.
Your Pain Has Spread to Other Parts of Your Body
If you have serious back pain accompanied by discomfort in other regions, including radiating agony to your feet and legs, you must consult a specialist. These symptoms are typical with sciatica, a debilitating disorder affecting the sciatic nerve. One of the most common causes of this concern is a herniated disk. Your back pain specialist at Downtown Pain Management will provide you with several options to help alleviate your discomfort.
You Experience Tingling, Weakness, or Numbness
Nerve injury or irritation can cause back discomfort characterized by tingling, weakness, or numbness that does not necessarily resolve with OTC pain medications. Considering that nerve pain is severe and, if it remains unaddressed, could lead to perpetual harm or disability, it is best to consult a professional.
Your Pain Worsens at Specific Positions
If you wake up at night with back pain or notice it just when you are in specific positions, like laying down, it may indicate a more severe issue. Typically, it might reflect a more serious condition, including infection, severe nerve compression, a fracture, or malignancy. To determine the root cause of your concern, make an appointment.
You Are Experiencing Bowel or Urination Issues
If your back discomfort is accompanied by a lack of control over urination or your bowels, go to the nearest emergency room right away. These signs and symptoms lead to cauda equina syndrome, a condition wherein the nerves in the lower spine are unresponsive.
Although uncommon, this disease can cause lifelong nerve damage if not addressed. If you have these symptoms, notable numbness in your legs, surgery to relieve the nerves and retain their proper functioning may be necessary.
You should never disregard back pain as it could sometimes be pinpointing a more serious condition like spinal stenosis or herniated discs. To discover lasting relief for your back pain, look no further than Downton Pain Management. Thanks to advanced technology and the cutting-edge procedures used, pain management specialists can work with you to determine what solution best addresses your unique concerns. Make an appointment through mobile or book online to find out more.
