Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Get emergency help for:
New loss of bladder or bowel control
Inability to urinate
Numbness around the genitals, buttocks, or inner thighs
Rapidly worsening weakness in one or both legs
Severe back pain after a major fall, collision, or other injury
These symptoms may indicate serious nerve pressure or spinal injury.
They are not expected features of uncomplicated lumbar lordosis.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if back pain occurs with fever, unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, significant immune suppression, or pain that is severe and does not ease with rest.
These features do not confirm a serious cause, but they need timely assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if:
Back pain persists, repeatedly returns, or limits sleep or daily activity
The curve appears to be increasing
A child develops a noticeable or changing swayback posture
You have new pain travelling down a leg, tingling, or numbness
You are concerned about the curve or its effect on movement
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Lordosis - lumbar. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.