Do You Need to See a Doctor for Back Pain?
Back pain can be debilitating. When healthy, you never really think about how the back supports your entire body and movements. The pain can show you how much the back plays a role in getting up, walking and standing.
It was reported that 8% of adults complain of chronic back pain. That is a condition where the person constantly feels discomfort in a specific area. Almost all people experience back pain once in their lives.
Treatment for back pain depends on the cause, type and symptoms.
Types of Back Pain
There are several types of back pain, according to doctors and researchers. They are described based on how long they occur.
- Acute Back Pain – The pain comes from nowhere and lasts a few days to weeks.
- Chronic Back Pain – It can also develop suddenly over time and lasts more than 12 weeks.
- Subacute Back Pain – The pain can develop suddenly or over time and lasts anywhere between 4 to 12 weeks
Other Symptoms of Back Pain
All types have the same primary symptom of pain located in the back. It can be local to a single area or a generalized feeling that spreads throughout the entire back. The pain could radiate to other areas, including the legs, abdomen and buttocks.
People with back pain can experience the following:
- Bending down increases pain
- Lifting increases pain
- Pain comes and goes randomly
- Stiffness when waking up and gets better with movement
- Worsening of pain when sitting or resting
If you are experiencing the following symptoms along with the pain, you should see a doctor at once:
- Fever along with back pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Pain after an accident, like falling
- Pain does not subside when using over-the-counter medication
- Trouble urinating
- Weight loss
The symptoms can vary greatly and treatment for back pain is provided once the cause is identified.
What Causes Back Pain?
The common reason for back pain is mechanical or structural problems with your muscles, tendons or ligaments. The back can get strained due to constant use, wrong posture or an accident.
Arthritis can also cause back pain if it affects the spine. Other medical conditions that can cause back pain include:
- Fibromyalgia
- Infections
- Kidney stones
- Osteoporosis
- Tumors
Visit UF Health Emergency and Urgent Care for Immediate Back Pain Treatment
Many things can lead to back pain. If it begins to hinder your routine or the pain is accompanied by other symptoms, you should seek medical attention. All of our three Emergency & Urgent Care Centers in Jacksonville, Fla., offer treatment for back pain 24/7. Visit our facility if you have worrying symptoms or if the pain is too much to bear.
