location of emg testing for lower back upper leg pain

Medication and physical therapy are ineffective.Loss of normal bowel and bladder functions.Progressive neurologic deficits develop, such as leg weakness, numbness or both.Back and leg pain limits normal activity or impairs quality of life.Candidates for surgery present any of the following: When conservative treatment for low back pain does not provide relief or neurologic symptoms are worsening or severe, surgery may be needed. If these treatment options do not provide relief within a few weeks, it may be time to consider other diagnostic studies and possibly surgical evaluation. In addition, the doctor may recommend that limiting activities, provide a referral to a pain management specialist or both. If the physician notes clear signs that the nerve root is being compressed, he/she can prescribe medications to relieve the pain, swelling and irritation. The physician can evaluate and perform an in-office neurologic exam to determine which nerve root is being irritated and to rule out other serious medical conditions. If low back pain worsens or does not improve after two to three weeks of home treatment, contact the primary care physician. The physician may recommend anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and restrict strenuous activities for a few days. If no neurologic problems are present, the patient may benefit by beginning conservative treatment at home for two to three weeks. If you have any neurologic symptoms (numbness, weakness, tingling or bowel and bladder dysfunction), seek medical care immediately. If low back pain occurs after a recent injury - such as a car accident, a fall or sports injury - call your primary care physician immediately. Physicians usually recommend four to six weeks of conservative therapy before considering surgery. All of these treatment options are aimed at relieving inflammation in the back and irritation of nerve roots.

Treatment options include physical therapy, back exercises, weight reduction, steroid injections (epidural steroids), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, rehabilitation and limited activity.

Location of emg testing for lower back upper leg pain