Different reasons can cause your lower back to hurt, such as nerve pain, joint pain, and muscle pain. In most cases, the underlying conditions for your pain may not be dangerous because you can quickly get relief by taking pain-relief medication. However, if your back pain lasts for weeks and has symptoms like tingling or numbness in your legs or arms, you need to seek medical attention. Here are some of the key signs that you need to seek medical attention and lower back pain treatment.

1. You have lost bladder control 

If you experience loss of bladder control and have acute lower back pain, you should seek medical attention. Such symptoms are a sign of equine cauda syndrome, a condition that causes paralysis of the nerves on your lower spine. While this condition is rare, it can cause permanent damage to your nerves if not treated on time. If this is the case, you may need surgery to ease your back pain and regain bladder control. 

2. Your back pain intensifies at night

When you experience lower back pain, watch out for pain intensity throughout the day. If you notice that the pain intensifies at night, it could signify an underlying back condition like a sprain or disc degeneration. In such a case, seeking treatment from a lower back pain specialist guarantees a restful night's sleep.

3. Your back pain is accompanied by a tingling sensation

If you have a lower back pain that presents symptoms such as tingling sensation, numbness, or weakness to the arm or legs, it could indicate nerve damage or irritation. For example, spinal stenosis may be putting a lot of pressure on your spinal nerves and cause a tingling sensation. If you don't seek lower back pain treatment for this condition, it can cause permanent disability.

4. Your back pain extends to other parts of the body

You need to seek medical help if you experience severe back pain that extends to different parts of your body, like from your back to the toes. In such a case, it could be a sign of sciatica, a condition caused by a herniated disk and characterized by pain that runs from your lower back through your buttocks then branches to each leg. With timely medical attention, you can get relief from your pain.

When your common lower back pains and aches intensify, it's necessary to seek the services of a medical expert. You don't have to let back pain keep you from carrying on with your daily activities. By taking note of these four signs, you'll be taking a proactive approach towards better health.