Orthopedics
Spine & Back Care
Back and spine concerns can affect movement and daily life. Orthopedic assessment considers your symptoms, activity, medical history and any signs that require further investigation.
Investigating symptoms
Tell the clinician where pain occurs, whether it travels into a limb, whether you have numbness or weakness and how daily life is affected. Tests are selected according to the history and examination. A scan is not automatically needed for every episode of back pain.
Emergency symptoms
New difficulty passing or controlling urine or stool, numbness around the genitals or anus, or weakness or symptoms in both legs needs emergency assessment. Seek advice for persistent pain or concerning changes. If there are no warning signs, discuss appropriate movement and whether rehabilitation is suitable.
Explain what the back problem changes
Describe where the pain is felt, whether it travels into a leg or arm and whether there is numbness or weakness. Mention how it affects sleep, sitting, walking and work. Bring previous scans and reports, but also explain changes since those investigations; an older scan does not describe every current symptom.
The clinician can discuss which findings matter and whether further investigation or referral is appropriate. Ask how an examination and any imaging fit together, rather than assuming a scan alone will identify the best treatment.
A practical plan with clear reasons to seek help
Discuss the activities you want to maintain or return to and whether physiotherapy would help. Ask what you can do between reviews and how to adjust activity if symptoms change. Any recommendation about exercise or medicines should take account of your individual assessment.
Back pain with new bladder or bowel control problems, numbness around the genitals or severe new weakness needs urgent emergency assessment. Do not wait for a routine spine appointment in that situation. At an ordinary review, ask what progress would justify continuing the plan and what would lead to reconsidering it.
Frequently asked questions
Does all back pain need a scan?
No. A clinician considers your history, examination and warning signs before recommending imaging.
When is back pain an emergency?
Seek emergency assessment for new bladder or bowel changes, numbness around the genitals or anus, or weakness or symptoms affecting both legs.
Should I stay in bed until pain is gone?
Prolonged bed rest is generally discouraged. If you have no warning signs, ask a clinician about suitable movement.
Can back pain return?
It can. Discuss persistent or recurring symptoms and a plan for activity and follow-up with your clinician.
Sources and further reading
These sources provide general health information. Recommendations and services may differ by location; discuss your care with your clinician.