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Back Pain Health Center

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Back Problems and Injuries - Emergencies

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Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

  • Pain in the upper back with chest pain that is crushing, squeezing, or feels like a heavy weight on your chest or that occurs with any other symptoms of a heart attack
  • Signs of shock
  • Back pain that follows a severe injury, such as a:
    • Motor vehicle accident
    • Fall from a height of 15ft or higher
    • Major sports-related injury
    • Direct blow to the spine with a moving object
    • Forceful strike on top of the head
    • Very hard fall on the buttocks that sent pain into your back
    • Penetrating injury, such as a gunshot wound or stab wound
  • Symptoms of a spinal cord injury immediately following a back injury, including:
    • Loss of bowel or bladder control
    • Weakness in the legs
    • Numbness or tingling in the buttocks, genital area, or legs

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 28, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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