Back pain is common.
That doesn't make every episode harmless.
For an older adult, new or persistent back pain can have several possible causes, and age alone isn't enough to explain it.
The more useful questions are:
How did the pain start?
How long has it lasted?
Is anything else happening alongside it?
When Back Pain Deserves Medical Attention
The pain isn't improving
Back pain that persists or becomes progressively worse deserves assessment rather than endless self-treatment.
It followed a fall or injury
New back pain following a fall, accident or other trauma should be taken seriously, particularly in an older person.
There is weakness, numbness or tingling
Symptoms extending into the legs, particularly weakness or changes in sensation, can indicate nerve involvement and should be assessed.
Walking has become more difficult
If back pain is affecting balance, walking or normal movement, tell the healthcare professional assessing it.
There are changes in bladder or bowel control
New loss of bladder or bowel control alongside back pain requires urgent medical assessment.
The pain is accompanied by other concerning symptoms
Back pain accompanied by fever, unexplained weight loss or other significant symptoms should be medically evaluated.
Do You Need a Neurologist, Neurosurgeon or Orthopaedic Doctor?
That depends on what's causing the pain.
Back pain can involve bones, joints, muscles, discs, nerves or other structures.
A medical assessment helps determine which specialty, if any, is appropriate.
This is one reason it's better not to diagnose yourself based on the location of the pain alone.
Does Back Pain Mean You Need Spine Surgery?
No.
Most people who see a doctor for back pain will not automatically need surgery.
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and severity of the condition.
Banby provides both orthopaedic care and neurosurgery/spine surgery, including spinal surgery, pedicle screw fusion and spinal reconstruction where clinically indicated.
Those capabilities don't mean every patient with back pain is a surgical candidate.
They mean specialist surgical care is available when assessment determines it is appropriate.
Looking for Specialist Care for Back Pain in Ibadan?
Banby Specialist Hospital provides orthopaedic, neurological and neurosurgical services from its hospital in Akobo, Ibadan.
An assessment can help determine the cause of persistent back pain and the appropriate next step.
Seek urgent medical attention for severe or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms. This article provides general information and does not replace individual medical assessment.