131. 5 Red Flags You Don't Want to Miss in Low Back Pain

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the PT Snacks podcast, we discuss five critical red flags that physical therapists and students must identify in patients presenting with low back pain. These include cauda equina syndrome, metastatic cancer to the spine, spinal infections, vertebral compression fractures, and abdominal aortic aneurysms. We emphasize the importance of recognizing these symptoms early to refer patients to appropriate specialists promptly, potentially saving lives. 

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:42 Five Red Flags in Low Back Pain

01:18 Cauda Equina Syndrome

02:46 Cancer and Metastatic Disease

04:13 Spinal Infections

05:11 Vertebral Compression Fractures

06:38 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

07:37 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Need CEUs?
Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT

Support the show

Need CEUs?
Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:

• Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. 
• Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. 
• One annual subscription, no per-course fee. 

Special offers:

• Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.
• Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.

Studying for the NPTE?
Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.

Stay Connected!

Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com

Join the email list ...