What to have ready for the call.
Note when the pain began, what happened around its onset, how it affects daily activities, and any associated numbness, tingling, weakness, fever, or bladder or bowel changes.
A callback request gives the clinic a starting point to review the concern. Diagnosis, prescriptions, referrals, laboratory requisitions, documents, payment, and next steps depend on that review; another setting may be recommended.
When an examination, testing, or another setting may be needed.
This guide cannot decide whether it is safe to wait or which care setting is right for an individual concern. Some concerns need an in-person examination, testing, or another setting. If you are unsure where to go, contact an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting for individual guidance. Use prompt in-person care if you are concerned about worsening symptoms.
Know when not to wait.
Call 911 for back pain with chest-pain or heart-attack symptoms, inability to move a leg, or signs of serious spinal injury. Seek immediate care for new or worsening weakness, numbness, bladder or bowel loss, fever, or severe pain after an injury.
Virtual care is not appropriate for every concern. If your symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or may be an emergency, use emergency services or immediate in-person care instead of waiting for a callback.
Common questions about back pain.
Can I ask an online doctor about back pain in Alberta?
For a concern, an online request can help the clinic review the symptoms and decide whether a virtual conversation or another care setting may fit. It does not identify the cause of back pain or guarantee a virtual visit.
What should I prepare for a back-pain conversation?
Include when pain began, how it affects movement and daily activities, what occurred around its onset, and any associated changes such as numbness, weakness, fever, or bladder or bowel symptoms.
Can this guide tell me why my back hurts?
No. Back pain can have different causes. The guide supports preparation and care navigation, while a clinician determines whether assessment or another setting is needed.
Where can I find official Alberta back-pain information?
MyHealth Alberta provides current public information about back pain. It does not identify the cause of an individual concern or replace an appropriate clinical assessment.
Non-emergency request
Request a doctor call today.
For people physically in Alberta with a valid Alberta Health Care card. For requests submitted during open hours, the clinic reviews the request and contacts you about the next step. AlbertaMD operates daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm Mountain Time. For a possible emergency, call 911 rather than waiting for an online request. If your concern cannot wait, use appropriate in-person care; call 911 for a possible emergency.