Here are some signs and symptoms which could suggest a more serious medical condition related to the back.

These typically will require further evaluation and treatment. If you think you are at serious risk or need immediate medical advice, please contact Emergency services on 000 in Australia.

– Persistent fevers

– Unplanned weight loss

– Blood in the stool or urine

– Progressive numbness or weakness in the legs (getting worse day by day)

– Inability to urinate or have a bowel movement

– Loss of bowel/bladder control

– Pain at night

– Sexual dysfunction

– Balance problems

– Pain not alleviated or worsened by different positions

– Recent IV drug use

– Progressive worsening of pain despite relative rest

– Recent trauma

Some of the symptoms above can be sudden, and others can come on slowly.