What are the symptoms of back pain?

Back pain is usually experienced in the lower region of the back but pain may also extend to other areas of the back and the legs. Most people do not experience any other symptoms but you should contact your GP if you experience any of the following symptoms coupled with back pain:

  • A soaring temperature
  • Inflammation in the back
  • Pain that runs down the legs
  • Persistent back pain that doesn’t ease with pain relief
  • Loss of weight
  • Loss of bowel control
  • A lack of bladder control
  • A loss of sensation around the genital parts

You should also see your doctor if you have recently had a fall or an accident and then experience back pain or you fit any of the criteria below:

  • You are younger than 20
  • You are older than 55
  • You have been diagnosed with cancer
  • You have been taking steroids
  • You have a compromised immune system due to a health condition such as HIV or as a result of chemotherapy

Guide to Back pain

Back pain

What are the symptoms of back pain?

Causes of severe back pain

What causes back pain?

Preventing back pain

Treating back pain