Guides · Last reviewed 2026-11-13
Back pain with scoliosis: red flags that need a doctor
Back pain is more common in adults with scoliosis, and most of it isn't dangerous. A few symptoms, though, need urgent care. If you have back pain with any of the emergency signs below, call your local emergency number (999 in the UK) or go to A&E straight away.
Emergency: get help now if you have back pain and
- Pain, tingling, weakness or numbness in both legs
- Loss of feeling around your genitals or bottom
- Changes in your bladder or bowels, such as difficulty peeing, or peeing or pooing yourself
- Changes in how your genitals feel during sex, or new trouble getting or keeping an erection
- Chest pain
- Pain that started after a serious accident, such as a car crash
Urgent: get a same-day appointment (or call 111 in the UK) if you have back pain and
- You feel hot, cold, shivery or generally unwell
- The pain is severe and started suddenly, or it's getting worse quickly
See a doctor soon if
- You have numbness, tingling or pain that shoots down one leg
- You notice new weakness in a leg or foot
- Pain keeps getting worse over a few weeks, or isn't improving
- Your curve or posture is visibly changing
Everyday back pain
For ordinary back pain, the NHS advises staying active and carrying on with your daily activities, trying gentle exercises and stretches, and not staying in bed for long periods. It says walking, swimming, yoga and pilates may help, but to stop if your pain gets worse.
What Zixu does
Zixu asks about warning signs at every check-in and won't build a routine on a day you report one: numbness or tingling in your legs, pain that shoots down a leg, new weakness, changes in bladder or bowel control, or sudden, sharp back pain. It tells you to stop and get checked instead.