Symptoms Lower back pain ranges from mild, nagging pain to severe and debilitating pain.
Pain may be localized in the lower portion of the back or may radiate to the upper back, neck, legs, or abdomen. If back pain persists longer than two weeks with no decrease in intensity, medical attention should be sought. Change or loss of function in bowel or bladder habits, progressive weakness, or sensory loss are indications to seek immediate medical attention. Physical findings are reached through a neurologic examination in which the physician checks reflexes, strength, and sensation to determine if there is any evidence of nerve injury. There are specific maneuvers that the physician may have the patient perform to help determine the cause of the pain.