Signs of Serious Back Pain

Back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the National Institutes of Health. Because of this, symptoms should never be ignored. Back pain symptoms may range from a muscle ache to shooting or stabbing pains, limited flexibility, limited range of motion, or an inability to stand straight. Chronic back pain is pain that persists for more than 3 months. It is often progressive and the cause can be difficult to determine.

Here are four important warning signs to look out for:

  • Pain involving weakness, numbness or tingling: This could mean damage to the spinal cord.
  • Pain that stretches down to the back of the leg(s): Back pain that goes down this way can be a symptom of sciatica. This is inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the largest in the body.
  • Pain that increases over time rather than decreasing: After a period of time in which the pain still has not only gone away but also gotten worse, it is definitely time to seek the attention of a spine specialist.
  • Pain surging when bending or coughing: As if the back pain wasn’t unpleasant enough, shots of pain from coughing or bending could be an indicator of a herniated disc.

If you experience any or all of these symptoms, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment as they may indicate a serious spinal condition. Cantor Spine treats patients across every age and spinal condition – adult, teen, adolescent, and pediatric – stressing both non-surgical and surgical options (primarily, minimally-invasive procedures resulting in lower risks, better outcomes, and quick recoveries).

If you, or a loved one, are facing any of these conditions (including the most complex adult and pediatric deformity cases), please call to schedule an appointment. Our mission is simple – to deliver the best care, and change lives for the better. For more information, to schedule an appointment or for a second opinion, please call (954) 567-1332.