Understanding back pain: Recognise the red flags
Back pain is a common issue that many people face. Did you know that back pain is the leading cause of disability in the UK? According to the NHS, lower back pain alone accounts for 11% of the total disability among the UK population.
In 2023/24, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported that 1.7 million workers suffered from work-related ill-health, and 543,000 of these cases were due to musculoskeletal issues. Shockingly, 43% of these cases are back disorders, affecting 232,000 individuals.
While most lower back pain is due to musculoskeletal issues, it's important to be aware of the rare but serious conditions that can occur. So, why should we pay attention to less than 1% of these cases?
Red Flags: What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?
Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is a rare but serious condition where the spinal nerves at the end of the spinal cord get compressed. These nerves are crucial as they control bladder and bowel functions and sensations in and around the genitals and back passage. When these nerves are compressed, it can affect their function severely, requiring urgent medical attention. CES is rare, affecting one to three people in every 100,000.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For:
• Tingling or loss of feeling between your inner thighs or genitals
• Numbness around your back passage or buttocks
• Changes in sensation when using toilet paper.
• Difficulty urinating or controlling the flow of urine.
• Loss of sensation when passing urine
• Unaware of urine leakage or recent need to use pads.
• Inability to tell if your bladder is full or empty.
• Difficulty stopping bowel movements or unaware of leakage.
• Loss of sensation during bowel movements
• Changes in ability to achieve an erection or ejaculate.
• Loss of sensation in genitals during sex
If you experience any combination of these symptoms, seek emergency help immediately. It could make all the difference.
Red Herrings
It’s important to note that some of these symptoms can be caused by medications or other health conditions. However, if you or someone you know shows signs of CES, it's crucial to go to accident and emergency immediately.
Zurich’s Rehabilitation Services: Your Partner in Recovery
At Zurich, we understand how debilitating workplace injuries can be. Our General Insurance Rehabilitation Team is here to help. Comprised of qualified nurses and allied health professionals, we assess and support employees who have been injured at work.
Here’s how we support you:
• Immediate Access to Care: Our Rehabilitation Case Managers, and Rehabilitation Assistants ensure you get professional medical expertise right away.
• Comprehensive Support: From physiotherapy to imaging and consultations with specialists, we provide access to a range of treatments for back injuries.
• Cost Reduction: By facilitating prompt and right treatment, we help reduce the costs associated with workplace injuries for your business.
Imagine a workplace where you have peace of mind knowing that if an injury occurs, expert help is just a call away.
References
• NHS England: www.england.nhs.uk
• HSE: Statistics on working days lost in Great Britain
• HSE: 2023/34 work-related ill health and injury statistics
Staying informed about serious back conditions like Cauda Equina Syndrome can lead to prompt intervention and better outcomes. At Zurich, we are dedicated to supporting your health and well-being through our comprehensive rehabilitation services.
