If you have any neurologic symptoms (numbness, weakness, tingling or bowel and bladder dysfunction), seek medical care immediately. If low back pain occurs after a recent injury - such as a car accident, a fall or sports injury - call your primary care physician immediately. Physicians usually recommend four to six weeks of conservative therapy before considering surgery. All of these treatment options are aimed at relieving inflammation in the back and irritation of nerve roots. Treatment options include physical therapy, back exercises, weight reduction, steroid injections (epidural steroids), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, rehabilitation and limited activity.
