October 15, 2026 — Emergency Care
By Candice Cardon, MD
Your back is an interconnected network of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, discs and nerves. When one area becomes irritated, nearby muscles may tighten or spasm to protect it. You may stand, lean or walk differently, placing more stress on the surrounding muscles. This is why a relatively small strain can make your entire body hurt.
Back pain is the second-most common reason for hospitalizations in the U.S. Each year, over 13% of the adult population in the U.S. has back pain that lasts at least two weeks, which can lead to missing work and missing out on time with loved ones.
While most types of back pain can be managed with rest, physical therapy, or medication, some symptoms warrant a visit to the ER. Sharp or severe pain, nerve-related symptoms or unexplained functional changes can be signs of a serious spine-related health problem.
When you are trying to determine whether your back pain is a medical emergency, consider your full range of symptoms—not just how much it hurts.
Go to the ER for back pain after a vehicle accident or if you have a fall, collision or blow to the back. There may be a fracture, particularly in older adults or people with weakened bones.
Lasting sharp pain—not just a dull aching sensation—should trigger a trip to the ER. So should pain that moves, shoots or radiates through the body, especially in the pelvis or lower limbs.
Back pain combined with other symptoms may point to a problem affecting the nerves, spine, circulatory system or internal organs. Seek emergency care if back pain occurs with any of the following symptom combinations:
If your pain began after lifting, twisting or another routine activity and you have no emergency warning signs, a short period of treatment at home may be reasonable.
Reduce activities that aggravate the pain but continue gentle movement as tolerated. Short walks and regular position changes are generally better than staying sedentary, which can increase stiffness and weaken the muscles that support your back.
A heating pad, warm shower or wrapped cold pack may provide relief. Use heat or cold for short periods and protect your skin with a towel. Pillows can also support a more comfortable sleeping position.
If an over-the-counter pain medicine is safe for you, follow the package directions. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking medication if you are pregnant or have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, ulcers, or a bleeding disorder.
Physicians PremiER is a fully equipped freestanding emergency room, not an urgent care clinic. Our locations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with board-certified emergency doctors and advanced diagnostic services on site to determine the cause of your back pain.
When you arrive at the ER, describe your symptoms to the staff member on duty. Give as much detail as you can about any other symptoms in addition to your back pain.
Our team is trained to respond quickly to concerning symptoms and will bring you into a private treatment room to check your vital signs. The doctor will ask how the pain started, whether and where it travels and what makes it better or worse.
The physical examination may include:
Not every patient needs imaging. Muscle strains can often be diagnosed through examinations. Suspected fractures, infections, kidney problems or other emergencies may require additional tests. Laboratory tests may reveal infection, inflammation, kidney problems or other conditions contributing to the pain.
An X-ray may help identify a fracture. CT can provide more detailed information about certain injuries and internal conditions, while ultrasound can help evaluate some abdominal, urinary and vascular concerns.
Physicians PremiER locations offer full on-site laboratory testing, digital X-rays, CT scans and ultrasound. Having these services in the same facility allows the doctor to review results right away so you can begin appropriate treatment faster.
Treatment is based on the cause and severity of your symptoms. It may include medication to control pain, muscle spasms or nausea, IV fluids or support for an injury, such as a brace. The doctor will also explain which symptoms to watch for and what follow-up care you may need.
Some back pain emergencies require advanced imaging or care from a spine specialist. ER doctors can stabilize you and coordinate transfer to a hospital, if needed.
Pay attention to changes in your body beyond the pain itself. New loss of bladder or bowel function, numbness or weakness or symptoms involving the chest or abdomen require prompt evaluation.
Don’t risk your long-term health and quality of life. It’s better to get a doctor’s input in case your symptoms are caused by a serious condition.
Stay prepared: Find an emergency room near you. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.
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