Red Flags for Patients with Back Pain

Chiropractor and Acupuncturist Chapel Hill, NC

Chiropractor and Acupuncturist Chapel Hill, NC

A Red Flag is a clinical presentation or illness that warns of a condition that may lead to a serious problem unless it receives specialized treatment immediately. Chiropractors and Licensed Acupuncturists are trained to evaluate each patient at each office visit for the presence of ‘Red Flags’ because these presentations require additional evaluation and possible specialist referral for additional imaging or other treatments. Dr. Oskardmay always evaluates each patient prior to treatment. Some, especially new, conditions warrant full re- examination or possible referral, especially Red Flag situations described here.

When a patient has suffered trauma, this is a red flag because the patient may have fractures or other conditions caused by the trauma that present as back pain. For patients with unexplained weight loss, this warrants further scrutiny because it may be a sign of cancer or other serious illness. A history of cancer is a red flag because of the possibility of recurrence. Patients with neurologic symptoms, such as sharp pain, numbness, or radiating pain, may have more serious nervous system conditions that, left untreated, may lead to future problems. Patients presenting with urinary or bowel incontinence require further evaluation, as well.

Age 55 and older is considered a red flag because many other serious problems masquerade as back pain in the older population. Additionally, persistent back pain in persons younger than 18 is worrisome and requires additional attention. Having a history of steroid use is also considered a red flag requiring more scrutiny because steroids, especially long-term steroid usage, can cause weakening of the bones and immune system, resulting in health problems that mimic back pain but are more serious.

If a person does not get better with therapy, or if their pain persists more than 6 weeks, this is considered a red flag cause for concern. Additionally, pain that is worse at rest or at nighttime is a red flag and warrants increased investigation into its cause. Also, patients with vertebral fractures or history of osteoporosis warrant further concern, as do patients with persistent fever (over 100.4 F) or a history of intravenous drug use.

Patients who had spinal surgery in the past year, or who have had a recent bacterial infection or UTI, present red flags that require additional attention and potential medical evaluation. Back pain in patients with diabetes mellitus or a history of organ transplant benefits from enhanced scrutiny, as well. Additionally, patients presenting with weakness or numbness in both legs, or major sensory or motor limitations in any area all suggest further evaluation.

While Red Flags are not a contraindication for chiropractic or acupuncture care, each situation presents an opportunity to help the patient get the care they need by not ignoring the red flags. Both chiropractors and acupuncturists refer patients to medical doctors and other practitioners when they see red flag conditions. Doing so furthers trust in the community, but most importantly, helps patients get the care they need.

Call today 919-929-1400 to get the care you need at Acupractic Natural Healing Center in Chapel Hill. Dr. Lisa Oskardmay, DC, LAc., serving the Durham Chapel Hill Community since 1995 with quality, trusted chiropractic and acupuncture healthcare. Visit us anytime to learn more and to schedule an appointment at acudocnc.com.