Whether you’re experiencing discomfort for the first time or have been struggling with chronic pain, this guide is designed to provide you with valuable insights and practical strategies to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
Lower back pain can stem from a variety of issues and injuries. Understanding these common problems can help you recognise the causes of your pain and seek appropriate treatment.Â
Muscle Strain: A muscle strain happens when the muscles or tendons in the lower back are overstretched or torn. This often results from heavy lifting, sudden movements, or improper body mechanics. Symptoms of a muscle strain include localised pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms.
Ligament Sprain: A ligament sprain occurs when these tissues are overstretched or torn, usually due to improper lifting techniques or sudden twists. Symptoms cause pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected area.
Sciatica: Sciatica is characterised by pain that radiates from the lower back down through the buttocks and legs. This is often caused by a herniated disc or bone spur pressing on the sciatic nerve. However, it’s important to recognise that other conditions, such as muscular tightness or poor posture, can mimic the symptoms of sciatica. These cases may not involve severe anatomical issues but can still cause significant pain and discomfort.
Herniated Discs: A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like centre of a disc pushes through a crack in the tough outer layer. This can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness. It’s important to note that the pain is often due to compensatory mechanisms in the surrounding muscles rather than the disc itself, as the disc does not contain nerve endings. When the body senses something is wrong, it sends pain signals through sensitive structures like muscles, which can flare up and cause spasms. This reaction is the body’s way of protecting the injured area, but it can lead to significant discomfort and reduced mobility.
Understanding the causes of lower back pain is crucial for finding effective treatment and relief. Lower back pain can be categorised into two types: acute and chronic. Let’s explore these types and the common causes of lower back pain.
Acute lower back pain typically comes on suddenly and lasts for a short period, usually a few days to a few weeks. This type of pain is often the result of an injury or a specific event, such as lifting a heavy object improperly or a sudden movement that strains the back. Acute pain can be sharp and intense but often resolves with appropriate care and treatment.
Chronic lower back pain persists for 12 weeks or longer, even after the initial injury or cause of the pain has been treated. Chronic pain can vary in intensity and may be constant or intermittent. It often requires a comprehensive approach to treatment, addressing not just the physical symptoms but also any underlying conditions or contributing factors.
If you’d like to book an initial assessment, we will work to identify the root cause of your pain through a thorough diagnosis. From there, we will develop a personalised treatment plan aimed at achieving pain relief and preventing future flare-ups.
We’re a caring team dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey. From our skilled physiotherapists to our nurturing yoga instructors, each of us brings a unique touch and warmth to your experience. We can’t wait for you to meet the friendly faces who will be here to cheer you on every step of the way.
