Why does back pain persist?
Back pain can arise from several structures and is often influenced by movement, sleep, general health and the nervous system. Imaging findings do not always explain the severity of symptoms.
What happens during an assessment?
A consultation begins with your history, examination, previous treatments and what matters most to you. Investigations such as MRI may be considered when they are likely to change management.
What treatments are available?
Treatment may include advice on activity, rehabilitation, medication review, specialist referral and, for carefully selected indications, an interventional procedure. No single treatment is appropriate for everyone.
When to seek urgent medical attention
Most back and leg pain does not require emergency treatment. However, new difficulty passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the genitals or back passage (saddle area), or new or rapidly worsening leg weakness may indicate serious nerve compression, including cauda equina syndrome.
Attend an emergency department immediately if these symptoms develop. Do not wait for a routine appointment or email response. New severe back pain with fever or after significant trauma also warrants prompt medical assessment.