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Back pain: when to see a doctor
Most back pain comes from strained muscles and improves within a few weeks. A few signs mean nerves may be affected.
🔴 Go to the ER or call 911 if there is
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness in the groin or inner thighs
- Weakness in the legs that is getting worse
- Back pain after a serious fall or crash
🟠 Get care today if there is
- Back pain with fever
- Pain shooting down one leg below the knee
🟢 What helps at home
- Keep moving gently
- Heat or ice
- An over-the-counter pain reliever as the label directs
Learn more from MedlinePlus, the U.S. National Library of Medicine: Back pain →. This guide is general information for adults and caregivers. It is not medical advice, it cannot cover every case, and it is not a substitute for a clinician who can examine the person. When in doubt, seek care. FreeDoc is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Library of Medicine.