Back pain is the most common complaint worldwide. While back pain is often temporary and can be caused by poor posture, injury, or strain, persistent, severe, or chronic backache may indicate a more serious condition, particularly when nerves become involved. In such situations, a thorough neurological evaluation is necessary.
Neurologists specialize in nervous system disorders, which encompass conditions that can affect the spine and spinal cord. A neurological expert may be able to help you if symptoms accompany the back pain you are experiencing. Understanding how to diagnose back pain correctly is the key to long-term relief and preventing complications.
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1. Radiating Pain In The Arms Or Legs
Back pain that radiates to your arms or legs could be caused by nerve damage. This type of pain can be described as shooting, burning, or tingling. It may indicate a herniated spine or spinal stenosis.
For instance, compression of the sciatica results in sciatica. It causes pain in the leg and lower back. A neurologist can perform advanced imaging and nerve conductivity studies to determine the exact source of the issue.
2. Feelings Of Numbness And Weakness
Experiencing numbness or tingling sensations — especially in your hands, feet, or limbs — is a red flag that nerves may be involved. Another serious symptom of nerve damage is muscle weakness.
Never ignore these symptoms, because they can indicate nerve compression or damage. A neurologist can evaluate your reflexes. Muscle strength and sensory responses are used to determine how well your nervous system functions.
3. Inability To Control The Bladder, Bowel, Or Both
Cauda Equina Syndrome can manifest as sudden, severe back and bladder pain. This is an emergency that needs immediate medical attention. This condition is caused when the nerve roots in the base area of the spine become compressed.
In this scenario, a neurological assessment is crucial. Early intervention can help prevent permanent damage.
4. Difficulty Walking And Balancing
Back pain that affects your gait and balance can be a sign of a neurological problem, particularly if it is accompanied by dizziness. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord compression can make it difficult to move and balance properly.
A neurologist evaluates your coordination (reflexes), motor function, and motor skills to identify any abnormalities that could be contributing to your symptoms.
5. Pain That Doesn’t Improve With Conservative Therapy
If you’ve already tried chiropractic care and over-the-counter pain medication, but still haven’t seen any improvement, it could be time to take a closer look. The cause of persistent back problems that don’t respond to conventional treatment could be a neurological problem.
To accurately diagnose backache, it is essential to rule out any muscular or skeletal causes and assess nerve involvement. A neurologist offers a comprehensive treatment approach.
6. History Of Neurological Disorders
If you suffer from a neurological disorder such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis and your back pain increases or becomes worse, you should see a neurologist. These conditions affect the nerves and spine in various ways. Back pain could be an indication that these conditions are progressing.
7. Unexplained Fever Or Weight Loss
Unexplained fever or weight loss may not be linked to neurologic issues. However, they could indicate a tumour or an infection pressing on your spine or spinal column.
South Valley Neurology offers back pain relief at its comprehensive clinic. If you have any of these signs, the team at https://www.southvalleyneurology.com is here to help. As experts in the field of spinal and nervous-related disorders, they provide personalized treatment plans as well as advanced diagnostics.
South Valley Neurology offers patients expert care, grounded in evidence-based and effective treatment approaches. This includes MRI and electrodiagnostic tests, pain management strategies, and neurological evaluations.
Take The First Step To Relief
Back pain is not just an inconvenience. It could be a sign that something more serious is going on. Knowing how to diagnose back pain correctly means knowing the right time to consult with a specialist.
If you experience symptoms such as radiating pain, numbness/weakness, or bladder concerns, do not wait. Visit South Valley Neurology to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. The right diagnosis today can lead you to better outcomes later.
