Warning Signs to Watch For

"Call 911" or "Make an Appointment"?

Not every red flag means "rush to the hospital." Here's how to gauge the urgency.

Go to the Emergency Room Now (Call 911)

• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Numbness around the buttocks and groin
• Weakness or numbness in both legs
• Leg symptoms that are rapidly getting worse

These are signs of cauda equina syndrome. Time is critical.

See a Doctor Today

• Weakness in one leg (you can walk, but you're tripping)
• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher along with back pain
• Recent cancer treatment combined with new back pain

Schedule an Appointment Within 1–2 Weeks

• Unexplained weight loss along with chronic back pain
• Pain that wakes you up at night
• Back pain after a fall that has lasted more than 2 weeks
• Back pain that has not improved after 6 weeks

A Routine Visit Is Fine

• Pain with movement that gets better with rest
• No nerve symptoms (no weakness, no numbness)
• No systemic symptoms (no fever, no weight loss)