If back pain often gets better with self-care, how do I know when to see a consultant?

Most cases of back pain will gradually improve within a few weeks with self-care, at-home treatment, and exercises. However, you should make an appointment with a consultant as soon as possible if your back pain:

• has come on after a traumatic injury, such as a fall

• lasts longer than 3 weeks

• is very severe and doesn’t ease with rest

• radiates down one or both legs, especially past the knee

• causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs

• happens alongside unexplained weight loss

• causes new bowel or bladder issues

• is paired with a fever

• you also notice a change in your ability to get an erection or ejaculate

• you find a loss of genital sensation during sex