VigorBuddy | How To Tell You Should See a Surgeon for Low Back Pain | Pain in the lower part of your back can range from being slightly annoying to restricting your movement. In some cases, it can be so deliberating that people simply stay in bed. It’s a common issue with as much as 16% of the population suffering from back problems at any time.
There are many reasons why you may experience back pain. It’s often a result of overexertion, lifting incorrectly, or even from trauma. The good news is the human body is remarkable at healing itself. In many cases rest, light exercise, and time will heal your back.
However, there are times when medical help is the only viable solution. The question is when do you book a visit to your local spine surgeon and when do you simply tough it out?
You need to know when to see a surgeon for lower back pain:
Length Of Injury
When you first experience back pain it is advisable to put something cold on the area. This restricts blood flow and reduces inflammation. You can follow this up with heat to increase the flow of nutrients to the area and aid healing. Of course, taking standard over-the-counter pain medication can also help.
However, if your back has been hurting for longer than two weeks you need to visit a surgeon. If this is the case then your injury is probably more severe than you think. The surgeon can help treat spinal bruising, strained or herniated discs and a number of other lower back issues.
Extensive Pain
Back pain is naturally painful. You’ll feel stiff, less able to move, and not inclined to bend or flex. This is normal and the stiffness and pain should subside over the course of a few days.
But, if this doesn’t happen or the pain is intense, you’ll need to visit a specialist. They will perform the necessary tests to identify the issue and, if necessary, give you stronger pain medication to help you tolerate the pain as your back heals.
Of course, being a specialist, they can also help organize other treatment options, including surgery if this is necessary.
Numbness & Tingling
Any time you injure your back you risk placing pressure on the nerves inside your spinal column. Pressure on nerves causes pain but it can also cause tingling and numbness, a sign that the nerves are damaged. In this instance, you’ll want to see a spine surgeon as quickly as possible to understand what is happening.
Trauma
In many cases, a sudden trauma will necessitate an emergency response which will mean your back is already being assessed. However, if the trauma happens at home and you choose not to visit your emergency ward, you may find the pain increases as time passes. In this instance, you’ll want an appointment with your spine surgeon as quickly as possible.
Most people with lower back pain don’t need surgery to resolve the issue. They simply need a diagnosis and advice regarding exercises, movement, and pain control.
However, if you have concerns the earlier you see a spine surgeon the better your chance of a positive outcome.
