Diagnosing Low Back Pain

Diagnosing Low Back Pain

Low Back Pain, Back Pain Lower, Back Pain 

See your doctor to diagnose low back pain. Tell him your complete medical history. It is important to identify the site of primary pain (maximum local pain site) as well as secondary pain (diffuse, non discrete pain). The physical examination may yield neurological signs with motor and sensory deficit. The doctor checks for:

• Evidence of nerve problems. The doctor evaluates strength, sensation and reflexes. He or she may ask you to move your spine to see how limited the motion is.
• Poor blood circulation. Although not related to the spine, poor blood circulation can lead to back pain. Tell the doctor what activities aggravates or improves your symptoms.
• Injury to the spine and the integral supporting elements.
• Muscle spasm affecting posture and alignment of spine. Tell the doctor what motions or positions hurt and what helps relieve the pain. 

Types of lower back pain that indicate a surgical emergency
Low Back Pain, Back Pain Lower, Back Pain
These symptoms indicate a serious medical condition requiring urgent medical attention and possibly surgery:

• Sudden bowel and/or bladder incontinence
• Progressive weakness in the legs
• Severe, continuous abdominal and low back pain (possible leaking blood vessel)
• Back pain with fever and chills
• History of cancer with recent weight loss, or those have just suffered a severe trauma should also seek immediate medical attention