The scope of back injuries varies greatly between patients, depending on the source of the injury and the following symptoms. While back injuries can feel painful regardless, it is essential to know when the injury becomes serious enough to seek urgent care. Take a moment to review these telltale signs of a serious back injury as revealed by trusted orthopaedic doctors in the area. For effective spine treatment near you, schedule a consultation with Orthopaedic Medical Group of Riverview.
Common Causes of Back Injuries
Back injuries can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Sports or exercise-related strain
- Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
- Slips, falls, or accidents
- Degenerative conditions such as arthritis or herniated discs
- Repetitive motion injuries from work or daily activities
While many mild injuries improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief, others may require professional evaluation by an orthopedic specialist.
Signs Your Back Injury May Be Serious
So, how do you know if a back injury is more than just a pulled muscle? Look for these red flags:
1. Severe or Persistent Pain
If your back pain doesn’t improve after a few days of rest and self-care, or if it worsens, this could signal a more serious condition, such as a herniated disc or spinal fracture.
2. Pain Radiating Down the Legs
Back injuries that cause pain, tingling, or numbness down the legs (sciatica) often indicate nerve involvement. This requires medical evaluation to prevent long-term nerve damage.
3. Weakness or Loss of Coordination
Difficulty walking, standing, or controlling your legs may suggest pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This is a medical emergency that should not be ignored.
4. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
One of the most serious warning signs is sudden loss of bladder or bowel function. This may indicate a condition called cauda equina syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.
5. Back Pain After Trauma
If your pain follows a car accident, fall, or sports injury, it’s important to get checked for fractures or ligament damage. Even if symptoms seem mild at first, serious injuries can worsen over time.
6. Night Pain or Unexplained Weight Loss
Back pain that wakes you up at night or is accompanied by weight loss, fever, or fatigue may be linked to an underlying medical condition and should be evaluated promptly.
When to See a Doctor for Back Pain
If you notice any of the warning signs above, schedule an appointment with an orthopedic or spine specialist in Riverview right away. Even if your symptoms seem mild, persistent back pain should never be ignored. Early treatment options such as physical therapy, injections, or minimally invasive procedures can prevent long-term damage and help you return to normal activities faster.
Call Orthopaedic Medical Group of Riverview Immediately For Comprehensive Back Injury Treatment
Schedule a consultation with Orthopaedic Medical Group of Riverview for effective treatment options for serious back injuries. We offer comprehensive spine care, physical therapy, and regenerative medicine to help relieve back pain and treat severe injuries. Give our team a call at (813) 684-BONE (2663).
