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OrthopaedicsHealth Q&A

When is back pain a red flag?

Illustration of a knee joint
Medically reviewed by

Dr. Meghana Alluri, MS, DNBConsultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Last reviewed · 5 min read

The large majority of back pain is mechanical and improves within six weeks. A small number of features change that calculation entirely.

Dr. Meghana Alluri

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

MBBS, MS, DNB (Orthopaedics)

8 Yrs
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Features that need urgent assessment

  • Numbness around the groin or difficulty passing urine
  • Weakness in a leg that is getting worse
  • Pain following significant trauma
  • Fever alongside back pain
  • Unexplained weight loss or a history of cancer

Important

Saddle numbness with bladder or bowel changes may indicate cauda equina syndrome — go to an emergency department immediately.

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When should I see a doctor about back pain?
Book a consultation if symptoms persist, get worse, wake you at night, or come with bleeding, fever or unexplained weight loss. Anything that does not settle within a few weeks is worth having looked at.
Will I need surgery?
Often not. Many conditions settle with medication, physiotherapy or a change in daily habits. Surgery is discussed when simpler measures have been tried, or when the problem is structural.

Still unsure what is causing your symptoms?

A short consultation with a Lux orthopaedics specialist can tell you what you are dealing with — and what, if anything, needs treating.

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Sources & references

Published · Last reviewed · Next review due February 2027

This article is published for general education. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an in-person consultation. If you are worried about a symptom, please speak to a qualified doctor.

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