Low back pain

In short

• Low back pain is very common and rarely serious
• Standing or sitting for long periods and certain movements can be very painful
• Continuing to move normally as much as you can increases the chances of recovery
• Do not force yourself into positions that cause pain and avoid standing or sitting in the same position for long periods
• A physiotherapist can provide information, advise you on how to move safely and prescribe specific exercises and treatment for your back

What is low back pain?

Low back pain is also known as lumbago. It is very common. Four out of five people suffer from occasional low back pain. It is often difficult to pinpoint the cause of the pain. Diagnostic imaging procedures (such as MRI scans and X-rays) sometimes show no injury, wear or structural abnormality in the back that would account for the pain. In most people, low back pain is caused by muscles, ligaments and joints in the back. The pain can be severe but is rarely indicative of disease or permanent damage. This is referred to as non-specific low back pain and occurs in 90% of cases. In about 10% of cases, specialist diagnostic procedures reveal a structural abnormality in the back that accounts for the pain. This type of low back pain is specific low back pain. One example would be a hernia. However, the cause of the pain can often be quickly determined from the symptoms. They are very different from those of non-specific low back pain and generally progress very differently. The physiotherapist will recognise these symptoms and may ask you to see your doctor before treating you. Physiotherapy is very effective in treating most specific low back problems and can play an important role in ensuring a successful recovery.

Symptoms of low back pain

People with low back pain experience pain in their lower back. The pain can also extend into the buttocks or legs. Standing or sitting for long periods and certain movements can be very painful. Some people experience back pain once, others experience it as a recurrent problem. It can come on suddenly as a sharp pain that shoots through the back or it can start as a mild pain and slowly get worse.

Treatment of low back pain

As we said, most back pain is not caused by a serious condition and gets better on its own. While this is reassuring, it does not alter the fact that back pain can be extremely uncomfortable and inconvenient. There is no miracle cure but staying active helps.

How can a physiotherapist help?

In principle, treatment consists of manual therapy techniques and exercises to release the muscles and make the spine more mobile. The physiotherapist will also give you information and advice on the best way to manage the symptoms. The focus of the treatment sessions will gradually shift more towards exercises that help you perform and build up daily activities such as work, hobbies and sport. The advice you get from the physiotherapist will ensure that if your back pain returns, you know what to do. More importantly, you will learn how to reduce the risk of back pain!

Our physiotherapists are available nearby to provide immediate treatment for your symptoms. We have a practice in your company or in the area, so you can start treatment straight away and do not have to spend time travelling. Our physiotherapists are familiar with your workplace. They know a great deal about the workstations, working postures, workloads and strains that the employees within the company have to deal with. They will assess your condition and determine the right treatment and guidance to best meet your needs.