Q. Is the pain restricted to the right side of lower back?
A. It could be a result of improper lifting.

Q. Does it hurt more when walking or putting weight on right leg?
A. This may be a sign of nerve involvement if putting weight on the corresponding leg is causing more pronounced pain.

Q. Does the pain shoot or radiate down the leg?
A. Pain that radiates down the leg is often indicative of nerve root impingement. This means that a disc or other structure or movement may have shifted and put pressure on the nerve root than comes out of the spine.

Q. Is the pain traveling down to the foot?
A. This could indicate further nerve involvement.

Q. Is the pain accompanied by numbness or a tingling sensation on the front or back of the right thigh?
A. This is further indicative of a nerve being pressed on and be helpful in locating the part of lumbar (low back bones) spine is directly involved in the pain.

Q. Does the pain become worse when sitting?
A. This pain can also help indicate from where the pain may be emanating from the spinal column. In the sitting position, your leg is about at a 90 degree angle to the spine. If this causes worsening of the pain, it can, again, help locate or find a specific cause for the pain.

Q. The pain started after I felt my back “give out” while lifting. Should I see a doctor?
A. If the pain occurred after lifting or twisting the spine, ice it for a while to reduce inflammation and try some ibuprofen. Restrict heavy lifting of anything for a few days. See if rest of the back muscles helps.

Q. When should I see a doctor?
A. If your pain has not resolved with conservative treatments as rest and over the counter pain relievers, a doctor’s evaluation should be performed. Orthopedists and spine specialist can be consulted.

Q. Should an MRI be obtained?
A. A doctor will examine you and possibly suggest an MRI. It should be performed to rule out a tumor or other structure impinging the nerve.

Q. What if there is trouble controlling bowels and bladder?
A. Loss of control of bladder or bowel function accompanying back pain should warrant an immediate trip to the emergency room or doctor’s office.

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