When Should I See a Doctor for a Slipped Disc?

FAQ Series — The Pain Relief Clinic Singapore

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When should I see a doctor for a slipped disc?

You should consult a doctor if:

• Your back or neck pain has lasted more than 1–2 weeks
• Pain radiates into your arms or legs
• You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness
• The pain is affecting sleep, work, or daily activities
• You are unsure if your symptoms are from a slipped disc or another condition

Early evaluation helps prevent worsening of the condition and may reduce the need for invasive treatments later on.

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What are emergency symptoms for a slipped disc?

While most slipped discs are not emergencies, urgent medical attention is needed if you experience:

• Severe weakness in the leg or arm
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle area)
• Sudden, severe back pain after trauma

These may be signs of a rare but serious condition called cauda equina syndrome, which may require emergency treatment to avoid permanent damage.

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Is sudden loss of bladder or bowel control an emergency?

Yes.
Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control—especially with back pain or leg numbness—can signal compression of the spinal nerves. This is a medical emergency and should be assessed immediately at the emergency department.

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How long should I wait if my back pain isn’t improving?

If pain doesn’t improve with rest, basic treatments, or medication within 1 to 2 weeks, it’s advisable to see a doctor.
You should seek care sooner if:

• The pain is worsening
• New symptoms like numbness or weakness develop
• You have difficulty walking, standing, or sleeping

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we often help patients who delay seeing a doctor and later find that earlier treatment could have shortened their recovery.

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What are the “red flag” symptoms of slipped disc complications?

Red flags include:

• Fever or chills with back pain (possible infection)
• History of cancer with new back pain
• Night pain or unexplained weight loss
• Recent trauma or fall
• Sudden numbness or weakness
• Changes in bladder or bowel function

If any of these apply, a thorough medical evaluation with imaging (such as an X-ray or MRI) is often required promptly.