As a physiotherapist, I see people from all walks of life with back pain — from athletes and office workers to new parents and tradespeople. The good news? With the right assessment and treatment, most back pain can be effectively managed without surgery or long-term medication. Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints — affecting up to 80% of people at some point in their lives. Whether it comes on suddenly after lifting something heavy, or builds up gradually from sitting at a desk all day, low back pain can be frustrating and limiting.

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The prevalence of low back pain is similar across the world and affects a large proportion of the population within the UK. The are many treatments advocated for low back pain with physiotherapy being a first line measure to help reduce pain and restore function. Physiotherapists can use a variety of treatments including; Massage, Joint mobilisations and manipulation, Taping, Acupuncture and Exercise, in conjunction with advice and education.

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Back pain can have many causes and involve the joints, intervertebral discs and muscles of the low back. Sciatica is a term used to describe nerve pain in the leg often as a result of compression within the low back. Diagnosis and early management can assist a good recovery from back pain and sciatica. Ongoing prevention strategies can also be used to reduce the risk of future problems. 

 

With most back pain conditions it is important to stay active to avoid losing range of movement and further worsening of symptoms. Relative rest and pain medications may also be used in the early management of back pain to assist recovery 

 

Low back pain that has been persistent for longer than 3-6 months is classified as chronic low back pain and can be difficult to treat. A holistic approach to this type of pain is often the most effective and if needed input from other specialists may be of significant benefit. At AG Physiotherapy we work closely with high quality therapists and consultants within the local area.

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Low Back Pain: Understanding, Managing, and Preventing It Through Physiotherapy

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​Understanding Low Back Pain

Low back pain is not a single condition — it’s a symptom that can arise from several structures in the spine and surrounding tissues, including:

• Muscles and tendons

• Ligaments and joints (facet joints)

• Intervertebral discs

• Nerves

In many cases, it’s what we call “non-specific low back pain”, meaning there’s no serious underlying disease, but rather a combination of mechanical and lifestyle factors.

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Common Causes and Contributors

• Poor posture or prolonged sitting

• Muscle weakness or imbalance (especially in the core and glutes)

• Sudden increase in physical activity or heavy lifting

• Stress and tension

• Inadequate movement or flexibility​

 

Common Presentations of Low Back Pain

People often describe their back pain in different ways. Some of the most frequent presentations I see include:

1. Acute Low Back Strain:
   Sudden sharp pain after lifting or twisting, often muscular in nature.

2. Mechanical Back Pain:
   Dull ache that worsens with certain movements or prolonged positions, usually related to posture or joint stiffness.

3. Disc-Related Pain (e.g., Herniated Disc):
   Pain that may radiate into the buttock or leg (sciatica), often worsened by bending or sitting.

4. Chronic or Recurrent Back Pain:
   Ongoing discomfort lasting longer than 12 weeks, often linked to lifestyle habits, stress, or deconditioning.

 

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy plays a key role in both the treatment and prevention of low back pain. Treatment is always individualised after a thorough assessment to identify the main contributing factors.

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1. Pain Relief and Early Management

In the early stages, the focus is on reducing pain and inflammation through:

• Gentle manual therapy (mobilisations, soft tissue release)

• Heat or ice therapy

• Education on positions of comfort and safe movement

Contrary to old advice, complete rest is rarely helpful. Controlled movement actually promotes healing and prevents stiffness.

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2. Restoring Mobility and Strength

Once pain begins to settle, we work on:

• Stretching tight muscles (hamstrings, hip flexors, lower back)

• Core strengthening to support the spine

• Glute and leg strengthening to reduce load on the lower back

• Movement retraining to restore confidence in bending, lifting, and daily activities

 

3. Posture and Ergonomics

Many people experience back pain due to prolonged sitting or poor workstation setup. Physiotherapists can assess your posture and suggest:

• Adjustments to your desk, chair, and monitor height

• Movement breaks and simple desk-based stretches

• Advice on lifting techniques and sleeping positions

 

4. Education and Self-Management

Understanding your back pain is one of the most powerful tools for recovery. Physiotherapy sessions often include:

• Education about how the spine works and heals

• Guidance on returning to exercise safely

• Strategies to manage flare-ups

 

5. Prevention and Long-Term Maintenance

Once symptoms improve, the goal shifts to preventing recurrence. Ongoing management may include:

• A personalised home exercise program

• Regular strength and mobility training

• Stress management and lifestyle advice

• Gradual return to sport or full activity

 

When to Seek Help

You should consult a physiotherapist or healthcare professional if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening pain lasting more than a few days

• Pain radiating down the leg or associated with numbness/tingling

• Pain after trauma or accident

• Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel function (seek immediate care)

 

Final Thoughts

Low back pain can be uncomfortable and worrying, but in most cases, it’s manageable and reversible with the right approach. Physiotherapy provides a comprehensive plan — not only to relieve pain but to address the root cause and prevent recurrence.

If you’re struggling with back pain, don’t wait it out. Early assessment and targeted physiotherapy can help you move confidently and live pain-free again.