Most people at some point in their lives will experience some type of back pain. It’s the curse of walking upright.
For many, back pain is the result of a muscular strain after a sudden movement or exertion, i.e. shoveling snow or playing with the kids. Treatment for these types of pain usually involves simple over the counter pain/anti-inflammatory medications, ice and physiotherapy or chiropractic therapy. The pain typically goes away and your activity levels are restored.
For some, back pain can be a much more serious issue and certain red flag symptoms mean get help fast!
Some red flags include:
- Sharp pain rather than a dull ache
- Shooting/radiating pain into one or both legs
- Numbness in the legs or groin area
- Loss of motor control / sudden weakness in the legs
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
If you have leg weakness, incontinence, and numbness together, you might have cauda equina syndrome, a serious illness characterized by spinal cord nerve damage. This is a medical emergency, and patients usually need surgery immediately to decompress the nerves and reduce permanent damage.
If you have back pain, give us a call at 416-259-0910 and we can help you get rid of you pain and get back to your activities.