See your doctor NOW!(BACK PAIN)-

Understand Red Flags for Lower Back Pain

Many patients when struck by an episode of lower back pain are unsure of what to do? This is a quick list of frequently asked questions:

-Do I need an xray?
MRI and Xrays increase your anxiety delay your recovery when done immediately upon having a episode of back pain.
-Do I need to see a doctor?
Most cases as long as you don’t have red flags meaning certain signs or symptoms you can see a physical therapist first.
-Should I wait and see if it gets better?
Delays in seeking care can prolong recovery. Simple education on and telling people what not to do is powerful and improves outcomes
Most back problems resolve in 2-3 months close to %90. The %10 that don’t get better tend to have surgery, injections and significant delays in healing.
– Is it safe to see a physical therapist first?
Research shows that physical therapists do the same screening as physicians often more comprehensive simple because of time devoted to the evalauation. In most cases I will refer to physician if unsure of findings or red flags are noted.
-Is it safe to start gentle exercise immediately after an episode?
Yes. Typically in first 2-3 days. Research shows outcome are not as good if bed rest is beyond 3 days. The general recommendation is to move as tolerated with a walking program, getting up every 30 minutes and gentle stretches.

The question is do I go to the doctor first, when to start treatment or simple see if you get better over time.

We discuss the times when you should going to the doctor immediately or in for emergency visit. And when we can try conservative care with a physical therapist. This is a short list of things to consider if you are dealing with back especially if it has been longer than 2-3 months since the onset and is not improving.

-Either younger than 20 years of age or greater than 55 years of age.
-Non-mechanical back pain
– Violent trauma
-Long term steriod use
– Previous medical history of Cancer
-Bowel and Bladder Problems
-Systemic Systems
– Persistent restriction for lumbar flexion
-Saddle Anesthesia
-Progressive Weakness
-Unexplained Weight Loss
-No relief with bed rest
-Balance problems

These are a few of “red” flags that should be considered when deciding to see a physical therapist or a doctor first. Good luck! Please post a comment below if you have any questions.

Check out our web site for our Back Pain report at https://apexorthopedicnj.com/ OR
email us at info@apexorthopedicnj.com
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