It can be difficult to distinguish between low back pain that doesn’t require immediate medical attention and pain that could be dangerous if left untreated. Here is a guide to help you assess the severity of your low back pain.
Severity Checklist and Interpretation
| Level | Symptom | Severity | Interpretation & Potential Cause |
| 1 | Pain in the lower back when moving the body. | No Danger | Likely muscular causes. Pain may resolve within 2–4 weeks. If pain persists or worsens, seek medical advice. |
| 2 | Unable to walk for long periods due to leg pain or numbness. | Caution | May indicate conditions like disc herniation or spinal stenosis. |
| 3 | Pain and numbness in the buttocks. | Warning | May indicate conditions like disc herniation or spinal stenosis. |
| 4 | Body stiffness or back becoming curved (bent over). | High risk | Possible compression fracture (especially for patients aged 50 and over). |
| 5 | Pain even when doing nothing (pain at rest). | Very Dangerous | Serious risk. Could indicate diseases of the spine or internal organs. |
Low back pain and numbness often involve various factors, making an accurate diagnosis essential for effective relief.
ILC International Lumbago Clinic in Tokyo offers free image consultations for patients with MRI data taken within the last 3 months. A doctor will review your images, propose a diagnosis and treatment plan, and follow up with you.
Written by Dr. Tadaaki Minowa, Administrative Director of ILC Tokyo
