Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a clinic. The good news is that most episodes are not caused by serious damage and improve within a few weeks.
Common causes
- Muscle or ligament strain from lifting, twisting or sudden movement
- Prolonged sitting and reduced activity
- Stiffness in the spinal joints
- Irritation of a spinal nerve, sometimes related to a disc
What usually helps
Staying gently active is generally better than bed rest. Short walks, changing position regularly and simple mobility exercises can all help. A clinician can assess how your spine and hips are moving and recommend a plan suited to you.
When to seek medical help urgently
Contact a doctor or emergency service promptly if back pain comes with numbness around the groin or buttocks, new difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, weakness in the legs, fever, unexplained weight loss, or follows a significant fall or accident.
This article is general information and not a substitute for an individual assessment. If you have severe, worsening or unusual symptoms, please seek medical advice.