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When to Call the Doctor
Posted: May 1, 2006
Acute back pain often goes away by itself in a few days or weeks. In most cases, it is not necessary to see a doctor for back pain because the pain usually goes away with or without treatment.
Contact a doctor if:
- Radiating pain, numbness, tingling or weakening occurs in arms or legs
- Bowel or bladder dysfunction occurs
- A child or elderly person has back pain
- Fever and/or vomiting occurs with back pain
- You have back pain after a fall or injury
- The pain is severe or recurs
Which type of doctor should I see?
Many different types of doctors treat back pain, from family physicians to doctors who specialize in disorders of the nerves and musculoskeletal system. In most cases, it is best to see your primary care physician first. In many cases, he or she can treat the problem. In other cases, your doctor may refer you to an appropriate specialist.
How is back pain diagnosed?
Diagnosing the cause of back pain requires a medical history and a physical exam. If necessary, your doctor may also order medical tests.
During the medical history, your doctor will ask questions about the nature of your pain. Questions might include the following:
- Have you fallen or injured your back recently?
- How long have you had pain?
- What medications or treatments have you tried for the pain?
- Does your back feel better – or hurt worse – when you lie down?
- Are there any activities or positions that ease or aggravate pain?
- Is your pain worse or better at a certain time of day?
- Do you or any family members have arthritis or other diseases that might affect the spine?
- Have you had back surgery or back pain before?
- Do you have pain, numbness and/or tingling down one or both legs?
Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
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