Low Back Pain Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Pain is usually localized in the low back. It gets worse with back motion, sitting, standing, bending, and twisting. If a nerve is irritated, the pain may extend into the buttock or leg on the affected side, and muscle weakness or numbness may be present. It usually gets better with rest, and there is good bowel and bladder control.

More serious symptoms associated with back pain that may require immediate medical attention include:

Pain that is severe or that has gotten dramatically worse
Progressive weakness in a leg or foot
Difficulty walking, standing, or moving
Numbness in the genital or rectal area
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Difficulty with urination
Fever, unexplained weight loss, or other signs of illness
Pain that awakes you from sleep at night

Pain that doesn't improve or worsens with rest (even at night) may be an indication of a more serious disease.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. In particular, the doctor will examine your back, hips, and legs and usually will test for strength, flexibility, sensation, and reflexes.

Other tests include:

X-rays —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones. This test is usually done if you are over 50 years old or have persistent symptoms for more than a week. This test has its limitations in that it does not show herniated discs or spinal stenosis
CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body. This test provides a good picture of the vertebrae and the spinal canal. This test is done when there are persistent symptoms.
MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body and shows the intervertebral discs and any abnormality of the discs. This test is done when there are persistent symptoms.
Bone scan —a test to determine mineralization of the bones
Blood tests—such as complete blood count (CBC) or sedimentation rate
Urine test—to check for urinary infection or blood in the urine

It's important to keep in mind that imaging tests, like CT or MRI scan, may not be helpful immediately after a back injury.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.