Lower Back PainSpine Care & Recovery

Common and highly treatable—learn symptoms, causes and how physiotherapy helps recovery.

What is lower back pain and how does physiotherapy help?

Lower back pain often relates to sensitised joints, discs and muscles. Episodes are common and usually improve within weeks.

Physiotherapy focuses on education, movement tolerance and progressive strengthening. Imaging is rarely required early and findings don’t always match symptoms.

We identify easing movements, build confidence with short, regular activity and layer in hip/core strength. A flare plan helps you stay active without over‑resting.

Typical recovery timeline

  • 2–6 weeks: symptom settling and improved sleep
  • 6–12 weeks: walking tolerance and strength gains
  • 12+ weeks: return to heavier tasks/sport

Helpful self‑checks

  • Easing vs aggravating: note movements that help or hinder
  • Pacing: short, regular walks usually trump long rests
  • Sleep: small changes (pillow, position) can reduce night pain

Understanding lower back pain

Common drivers

  • Load spikes in lifting, sitting or travel
  • De‑conditioning after illness/time off
  • Movement patterns that avoid or guard

Red flags vs typical recovery

Most cases improve with education, movement and progressive strength. Urgent assessment if progressive weakness, saddle numbness or bladder/bowel changes occur.

Your physiotherapist will screen for these and coordinate urgent care if needed; otherwise, conservative management is usually appropriate and effective.

Common contributing factors

Load spikes

Sudden increases in lifting/sitting.

De‑conditioning

Reduced capacity after time off.

Movement patterns

Guarding, limited hip mobility.

Sleep/stress

Amplify pain sensitivity.

What are the symptoms?

Primary symptoms

  • Back pain aching/stiffness +/- leg pain
  • Reduced range bending or twisting
  • Sitting tolerance reduced
  • Sleep disturbed by pain or position

Functional limitations

  • Long sitting, lifting and driving
  • Walking distance and stairs
  • Confidence in daily activity

How can physiotherapy help?

Care focuses on education, easing movement and progressive strengthening to restore function and reduce recurrence risk.

We begin with tolerable movements and short walks, then build hip and trunk strength. Practising confident, relaxed movement reduces guarding and helps symptoms settle.

Core components

  • Education, reassurance, flare plan
  • Easing movement practice within tolerance
  • Hip/core strengthening and walking plan
  • Return‑to‑work and activity progressions

Effective treatments

Manual therapy

Adjunct to ease pain and movement.

Exercise therapy

Mobility + progressive strengthening.

Education

Pacing and load management.

Lifestyle

Sleep, stress and activity strategies.

What happens in a physiotherapy session?

Assessment reviews irritability, easing movements, range/strength and neuro signs. Plan is staged and objective.

  • Subjective: pattern, sleep, red flags
  • Testing: repeated movements, strength, neuro screen
  • Education: prognosis, flare plan, pacing
  • Plan: movement → strength → function
  • Milestones: improved walking tolerance and sleep, confident bending

Can you manage lower back pain at home?

Yes—gentle movement and progressive strength help most people recover.

Weekly progression example

  • Week 1–2: easing movement + short walks
  • Week 3–4: add light strength (sit‑to‑stand, bridges, bird‑dog)
  • Week 5+: progress walking distance/strength
  • Criteria: symptoms easing, function building week‑to‑week

When should you seek help?

Urgent assessment

  • Progressive weakness, saddle numbness or bladder/bowel changes
  • Severe trauma or unremitting night pain

Consult a physiotherapist if

  • Symptoms persist beyond 6–8 weeks
  • Difficulty with work or daily tasks
  • Confidence in movement is limited

Accessing care in the UK

Access physiotherapy via GP referral on the NHS, or directly through private clinics (often faster access). Insurance or employer plans may help with costs.

FAQs

Do I need a scan?

Not usually. Imaging can help if recovery deviates from the expected path or if red flags exist.

Can I keep walking?

Yes—short, regular walks help build tolerance. Increase gradually.

How many sessions will I need?

Often 6–12 sessions over several weeks, tailored to goals and progress.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.