What Are the Warning Signs of Spine Problems?

Back and neck pain are incredibly common, but not every ache is “just part of getting older.” Your spine plays a major role in movement, stability, and nerve communication. When something isn’t working properly, your body will send early warning signs, and understanding those signals can help you get treatment before symptoms worsen.

Your spine supports nearly every movement you make, so early recognition of symptoms can prevent long-term complications. Here are the warning signs you shouldn’t ignore. In this video, our team at Ortho San Antonio explains the common red flags patients should pay attention to and when it’s time to seek expert care:

1. Persistent Back or Neck Pain

It’s normal to feel occasional soreness, but pain that lasts longer than a few weeks, or keeps returning, is a major warning sign. This is especially true if the discomfort:

• Worsens with activity

• Interferes with sleep

• Requires constant medication to manage

Chronic pain may indicate underlying issues like disc degeneration, arthritis, or nerve compression.

2. Pain That Travels Into the Arms or Legs

Radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations often point to nerve involvement. You may feel:

• Sciatic pain moving down the leg

• Tingling in the fingers

• Weakness or heaviness in the limbs

These symptoms typically signal a pinched nerve, herniated disc, or spinal stenosis.

3. Muscle Weakness or Loss of Coordination

If you notice difficulty walking, gripping objects, or maintaining balance, the nerves responsible for muscle function may be compromised. This can be a sign of:

• Spinal cord compression

• Severe nerve irritation

• Progressive structural problems

Early evaluation is crucial to prevent permanent nerve damage.

4. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

Sudden incontinence or changes in bladder or bowel habits require immediate medical attention. These symptoms can indicate cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition that demands emergency care.

5. Pain After an Accident or Injury

If your symptoms started after a fall, sports injury, or car accident, it’s important to have your spine evaluated. Even when pain seems mild, structural damage can worsen over time.

6. Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion

Difficulty bending, twisting, or turning your head may be related to:

• Arthritis

• Muscle spasms

• Degenerative disc disease

If mobility continues to decrease, your spine may need targeted treatment to restore function.

When to See a Spine Specialist

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, early diagnosis makes a major difference. At Ortho San Antonio, our spine specialists use advanced imaging, conservative treatments, and minimally invasive solutions to help you get back to normal life safely and quickly.

Whether your symptoms are new or worsening, our team is here to help guide your recovery.

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MEET DR. KEVIN RICHARDSON, Our Spine Specialist

Dr. Kevin Richardson is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Ortho San Antonio specializing in spine care. He focuses on diagnosing and treating a wide range of spinal conditions, including neck pain, back pain, nerve compression, and degenerative spine disorders. Dr. Richardson emphasizes conservative, patient-first treatment options whenever possible, while also offering advanced surgical solutions when needed.

Known for his clear communication and thoughtful approach, Dr. Richardson helps patients understand their condition and treatment options so they can make confident decisions about their spine health.

Ready for relief?
If neck or back pain is limiting your daily activities, schedule an appointment with Dr. Richardson at Ortho San Antonio and take the next step toward lasting relief.