10/21/2026
🚨 LOW BACK PAIN: KNOW THE RED FLAGS! 🚨
Not all low back pain is created equal! While most cases of back pain can be managed conservatively, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For:
🔴 Saddle Anesthesia: Numbness or tingling around the groin, inner thighs, or buttocks (areas that would touch a saddle).
🔴 Bowel or Bladder Changes: New loss of bowel or bladder control, difficulty starting urination, or inability to urinate.
🔴 Progressive Weakness: New or worsening weakness in one or both legs, especially if it affects walking.
🔴 Severe Pain After Trauma: Back pain following a significant fall, accident, or injury.
🔴 Fever or Unexplained Weight Loss: Back pain accompanied by fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss may indicate an underlying medical condition.
🚨 IMPORTANT: New saddle numbness, bowel or bladder dysfunction, or rapidly worsening leg weakness can be signs of cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition requiring emergency medical evaluation.
🏥 If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately. Do not wait for a physical therapy appointment.
At Accel Physical Therapy, we believe understanding your symptoms is an important part of staying healthy and active!
Listen to your body. Know the warning signs. Stay informed!
