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Significant injuries should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Factors That May Increase the Risk of Back Pain
Certain circumstances can make back problems more likely.Explore Anatomy Models
These include:
Physically demanding work
Frequent heavy lifting
Repetitive bending or twisting
Long periods of sitting
Lack of physical activity
Sudden increases in exercise
Poor sleep
Stress and emotional tension
Previous episodes of back pain
Certain medical conditions
Having one or more risk factors does not mean that someone will develop chronic back pain. It simply means that taking preventive measures may be particularly useful.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most uncomplicated back pain improves without emergency treatment. However, some symptoms require medical attention.
Seek urgent medical care if back pain occurs after a serious accident or injury, or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as significant weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin or inner thighs, or severe neurological changes.
Medical evaluation is also appropriate when pain:
Is severe or rapidly worsening
Continues without improvement
Frequently returns
Interferes significantly with sleep or daily activities
Is accompanied by unexplained weight loss
Occurs with fever or feeling seriously unwell
Is associated with unexplained weakness or numbness
These symptoms do not automatically mean that something serious is wrong, but they should not be ignored.