The presence of any of the following symptoms potentially require immediate attention and emergency care:
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Loss of bowel or bladder function
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Fever
The symptoms of chronic low back pain can vary based on the underlying cause, and sometimes pain or injury in the low back region can cause pain in other areas of the body. The types of pain experienced can range from constant, dull aching to severe, stabbing pain that all but prevents movement and severely impairs mobility and quality of life.
People with chronic low back pain may experience any of the following symptoms:[1][2] [3]
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Pain in the low back region, particularly when twisting, bending, or sitting.
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Pain in any of the muscles or joints in the lower back region or spine.
The following symptoms are specific to lumbosacral radiculopathy, a common cause of low back pain that can be acute or chronic:[4]
- Numbness, pain, or tingling in the upper glute/hip region, which may be more localized to the high-glute region, or extend down the back of the leg, sometimes all the way to the toes.
- Weakness in the legs or feet.