Lower back pain: which doctor should I see?
Almost everyone has lower back pain at least once. It usually passes within days or weeks, but sometimes it spreads down the leg or keeps coming back. Here you will learn what may be behind it, when it is urgent and which specialist to see.
Book a specialistWhen it is urgent
- You have difficulty passing urine, leak urine or stools, feel numb around the buttocks, groin or genitals, sensation during sex has changed, or you have a new problem getting an erection or reaching orgasm.
- You have pain, tingling or weakness in both legs, a leg suddenly becomes weak, or you cannot lift your foot.
- The pain started after a serious accident, such as a car crash, or is severe after a fall or a blow.
- The pain in the lower back or abdomen is sudden and very severe, or comes with chest pain, shortness of breath, pale skin or fainting.
With these signs, seek emergency help — call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Call 112What it may mean
- Strained or overstretched muscles — after lifting something heavy, a sudden movement or long sitting.
- A herniated disc — the pain may spread to the buttock and the leg, sometimes with numbness.
- Wear of the spine — pain and stiffness, worse in the morning or after standing for a long time.
- A trapped nerve (sciatica) — burning or shooting pain down the back of the leg.
- A cause outside the spine — for example the kidneys; this is why the doctor may order other tests too.
Which specialist
How to prepare for the visit
Note when the pain started, whether it spreads down the leg and what makes it worse or eases it. Bring any X-rays, MRI scans and discharge summaries, and a list of the medicines you take. Dress so your back can be examined easily.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stay in bed until it passes?
Usually not. Gentle movement within what you can tolerate helps more than long bed rest. With severe pain, ask a doctor. Book a visit without delay if the pain comes with a fever or unexplained weight loss, or if it is constant and does not ease even at rest and at night.
Do I need an MRI straight away?
Not always. The doctor decides after the examination whether and when a test is needed.
Neurologist, orthopaedist or neurosurgeon?
For pain that spreads down the leg, or numbness, the first specialist is usually a neurologist. For pain after an injury or strain, an orthopaedist. A neurosurgeon is seen when the doctor judges that an operation may be needed.
This information does not replace a visit to a doctor.