Back pain can negatively affect your life, especially if it’s serious or chronic. Sitting through a full day at work could be difficult. Walking your dog might be impossible. You might also find you can’t play any of the sports you love anymore. 

People dealing with back pain aren’t alone. In fact, research shows that about 80% of Americans experience back pain at some point in their lives. Many patients with back pain have a minor issue, and such issues will often get better with a little rest. However, some issues that cause back pain can be very serious. There are five signs in particular of when your back pain might be serious. 

These five things could be signs of when your back pain may be serious

Most cases of back pain are minor, but some symptoms could be signs that you’re dealing with a serious back issue. Some signs of when your back pain might be serious include: 

1. Feeling sharp pains — Back pain often feels like a dull ache. This type of pain can mean you have a minor issue like a pulled back muscle. However, sharp pains can indicate something more serious, such as pinched nerves. Sharp back pain can also be caused by problems with organs in the back or side. 

2. You have a radiating pain — Serious back issues often cause radiating pain. This is pain that runs from the back into the legs. Sciatica and other nerve compression issues typically cause radiating pain. 

3. Legs suddenly feel weak — Compressed nerves can also lead to this symptom. However, it can also be a sign of a stroke. 

4. Incontinence — This is when you’re unable to control your bowels or bladder. Incontinence coupled with back pain can be a sign of severe nerve compression. Additionally, it can indicate you have a serious spinal infection like discitis or meningitis. 

5. Feeling numbness in groin or glutes — This is often a sign of a serious nerve or spinal condition. It’s known to medical professionals as saddle anesthesia. Some issues that cause this symptom include cauda equina syndrome and conus medullaris syndrome. 

When signs show your back pain might be serious, Franklin Rehabilitation can help

When signs show your back pain might be serious, your first step should be to contact your doctor. Franklin Rehabilitation is here to assist you once you’re ready to begin recovering from serious issues that cause back pain. We can work with your doctor to build you a personalized treatment plan. 

Ready to find out how we can help you with serious back pain? Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.