Not all back pain is the same.There are certain symptoms that will tell you when you need to seek medical attention and when you can get better using an at home treatment.
A small twinge in the back usually means you will need to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, get plenty of rest and apply hot and cold therapy. After a few days, you can usually walk and do some mild exercise. Getting back to your daily routine should only take a couple weeks.
Then there is the back pain that means you could have a fracture, tumor or an infection in the spine. So how can you tell the difference?
Here are a few symptoms, that if you experience them, make an appointment to see your doctor straight away.
Accident
If you have been in a car accident, it is best to seek medical attention. Your body has just been jolted and moved in a manner that could have caused an injury, that if left untreated, could cause chronic pain.
A fall, even a small spill, could also cause serious damage to your back, especially if you are over 50 years of age.
Endless Pain
If you have tried pain relievers and hot and cold therapy and your back pain is not getting better, you could have a serious injury. If your pain last longer than a month, it is time to see a doctor.
Fever
A fever usually means your body is raising the core temperature to try and fight off an infection. If you have back pain and a persistent fever, it could mean there is a serious infection.
Pins and Needles
Having the sensation such as tingling or even experiencing numbness can be a sign that something is really wrong. It could mean that you have nerve damage which can lead to a disability if left untreated.