Back pain can be chronic or sudden and can make your life very difficult. Some people experience back pain for their entire lives while others only experience it after an injury. If you experience any back pain that continues for more than a few days, you need to see a doctor so they can help you figure out what’s wrong. If you have a sudden injury to your back or experience emergency symptoms, you need to go straight to the emergency room. The most common injuries to your back are caused by lifting objects. However, if you are in an accident or injure yourself suddenly, it’s not a bad idea to go to the doctor. Leaving back pain untreated can lead to much bigger issues, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Back Pain: When to Get Help and When to Go to the ER
Chronic Back Pain
Many people suffer from chronic back pain that lingers for years. It can be on and off as far as intensity and you might experience sudden flare-ups of pain. Chronic back pain can be the result of genetics, poor posture, and certain jobs. For example, people who work jobs that require heavy lifting are more likely to suffer from this injury. If you are experiencing pain that persists for more than a few days, it’s always a good idea to go to the doctor. They might be able to give you stretches that can make this more manageable.
Sudden Injury
If you experience a sudden injury or trauma to your back, it’s always best to get medical advice. Many back injuries are caused by lifting heavy objects incorrectly. However, car accidents are also a big reason for back injuries. You might experience immediate irritation after an accident, or it might take a few weeks to show up. In either instance, if you injure your back or spine, you’ll need to go to the doctor. They will check to see if there are any major injuries to your spine.
Common Causes
Without an accident, there are still ways to injure your back. Some people experience back spasms, muscle cramps, or the sensation of “throwing out their backs” frequently. This might be the result of lifting something, trying a new activity, or even something as silly as sneezing. Slipped discs are another common reason. This means that the bones making up your back might have gotten out of place. In older adults, spinal stenosis is quite common. If you experience either of these, you’ll need to get a medical opinion. They might prescribe medication or stretches to help you, or even surgery in extreme cases.
Emergent Symptoms
This type of injury is often gradual and long-lasting, it can be an emergency. If you are experiencing pain as a result of a fall, crash, or other injuries, seek help immediately. You could have spinal damage. Otherwise, if you experience intense pain that does not let up in a few hours, you should see a doctor as quickly as you can. If you experience tingling or shooting pains in your arms and legs, dizziness, nausea, or losing control of your bladder or bowel you need to go directly to the emergency room.
Back pain can be chronic and life-long or could be the result of sudden injury and last only a few weeks. However, it can cause a lot of trouble and make life difficult. Nearly every movement you make during the day involves your spinal muscles. If you are experiencing chronic pain, a doctor might be able to give you stretches or exercises to alleviate the pain. If you are experiencing back pain after an injury, you’ll want to see a doctor right away. Slipped discs and spinal stenosis are common reasons for long-term pain, but again, a doctor can give you tips to relieve the pain. And finally, if you experience emergency symptoms, go straight to the hospital. It’s always best to have your injury checked out by a doctor so they can prevent further damage and give you tips for helping the pain.