Symptom guide
Low Back Pain
Pain located in the lower back (lumbar region), between the ribcage and the pelvis. Patients commonly describe aching, stiffness, or sharp pain that may worsen with sitting, standing, or certain movements.
When to seek emergency care
- Loss of bowel or bladder control (seek emergency care immediately)
- Numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle anesthesia)
- Fever over 101°F with back pain
- Severe pain following a fall, accident, or trauma
- Unexplained weight loss alongside back pain
Conditions commonly associated with this symptom
Patients describing low back pain are commonly evaluated for these conditions. Only a clinician can determine which applies to you.
Which specialist typically evaluates this
The right provider depends on your specific situation. These are the specialties that commonly evaluate low back pain.
Frequently asked questions
- What types of providers commonly evaluate low back pain?
- Physiatrists (PM&R specialists), orthopedic spine surgeons, and pain management specialists commonly evaluate low back pain depending on its cause and duration.
- What conditions are commonly associated with low back pain?
- Low back pain is commonly associated with herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, lumbar facet syndrome, and disc bulges, among other spinal conditions.
- When is low back pain a medical emergency?
- Seek emergency care immediately if low back pain is accompanied by loss of bowel or bladder control, saddle anesthesia, high fever, or follows significant trauma.
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