(Back Pain Tips and Treatment first appeared in the Public Opinion Newspaper in May 2015.) Dr. Norbert Mathias, board certified physician at Keystone Urgent Care, shares what to look for when it comes to back pain and when to see a doctor.
Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common complaints presenting to emergency rooms, urgent care centers and doctors’ offices and one of the most common causes of missed work and disability claims. There can be multiple causes, different warning signs, and varied treatment options so it’s important to seek help when medically necessary.
Most common
The most common cause of low back pain by far is muscle strain which can feel rather severe. In most cases this type of back pain resolves within 4 to 6 weeks and requires nothing more than over the counter pain medications and time. It’s a very common problem with very limited satisfying treatment options. Most cases are minor and will resolve on their own.
Red flags
There are a number of red flags that can distinguish minor back pain from something much more serious: new persistent back pain in those younger than 18 or older than 50, those with a compromised immune system, intravenous drug users, new pain with unexplained weight loss, those with cancer or those on prolonged steroids.
Call 911
If you have any of the following symptoms, call 911 or go to the ER immediately: back pain along with loss of control of bowels or bladder, back pain due to trauma of any kind, sudden onset of moderate to severe back pain, new back pain associated with fever, or back pain associated with new muscle weakness in one or both legs.
Treatment
Recent research and scientific studies suggest that many common treatment options do not work or have little effect—oral steroids, over the counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, hot or cold compresses, and bed rest. Some research suggests that hands on care such as massage, using a medium mattress, and narcotics may help. Talk to your health care provider for more information.
For more information about Keystone Urgent Care, click here.
