Back or neck pain: when to see a doctor

It hasn't improved after a few weeks of looking after it at home

It's stopping you doing your day-to-day activities

You've lost weight without trying

A lump or swelling in your back, or your back has changed shape

It doesn't get better with rest, or it's worse at night

It's worse when you sneeze, cough or poo

The pain is high up, between the shoulder blades, rather than in the lower back

Pins and needles, or a cold or weak arm, with neck pain

You're worried about the pain or struggling to cope

Back or neck pain: when should you see a doctor?