PHYSIOMOTIVEWhat causes back pain
Most back pain comes from the muscles, joints and discs of the spine being overloaded. Long hours at a desk, poor sitting posture, lifting with a rounded back, sudden twisting and low activity levels are the usual triggers.
Less often, a disc bulge (slip disc or PIVD) or a pinched nerve is involved, and the pain may spread into the buttock or leg. In Kharadi's IT offices we see many people whose pain builds up across the week and settles on weekends.
Types of back pain we treat
- Sudden lower back pain after lifting, bending or twisting
- Chronic or recurring lower back pain
- Slip disc (PIVD) and disc-related pain
- Stiffness and pain between the shoulder blades from desk work
- Back pain during or after pregnancy, and after surgery, when cleared by your doctor
How we treat it
Treatment is based on an examination of how your spine, hips and core move and where it loads badly. Sessions are hands-on.
- Manual therapy and soft tissue work to ease stiffness and muscle spasm
- Exercises to strengthen the core, hips and back so the spine is supported
- Posture and ergonomic advice for your workstation and daily habits
- Dry needling, myofascial release or electrotherapy where they suit your case
- A plan to reduce the chance of the pain coming back
Why back pain keeps returning
Pain that settles with rest and comes back often means the cause has not changed. That may be a weak core, stiff hips, a long sitting routine or the way you lift. Our long-term programmes for chronic back pain address these causes, so you are not treating only the flare-up.
When to see a doctor first
Physiotherapy is not right for every problem. Get medical attention promptly if you have any of these:
- Loss of control over urine or bowels, or numbness around the groin or inner thighs
- Leg weakness that is getting worse
- Back pain after a fall, accident or blow to the back
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer along with new back pain
- Constant pain at night that does not change with movement or position
Frequently asked questions
Is bed rest good for back pain?
Short rest in a comfortable position can help on the worst day. Staying in bed for long usually makes the back stiffer. Gentle movement and a guided exercise plan are generally better.
Can sitting at a desk all day cause back pain?
Long unbroken sitting is a common contributor. Changing position often, setting up your chair and screen well, and strengthening the back and hips all help. We give workstation advice during treatment.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI?
Most back pain does not need a scan to start physiotherapy. Imaging is considered if there are warning signs or if you are not improving. Bring any reports you already have.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the cause and how long you have had the pain. After the first assessment you will get a plan with a realistic time frame, reviewed as you improve.