Low back pain

Back pain is a very common condition and is the largest cause of work-related absence in the U.K.

Low back pain can be very uncomfortable, but it is usually not serious. It can be associated with calf pain, foot pain, thigh and buttock pain and this is often called sciatica or referred pain. You could possibly have some weakness, numbness, pins and needles or tingling sensations in your legs.

N.B. If during your episode of low back pain you become suddenly incontinent you should go straight to your local Accident and Emergency Department as this could indicate a more severe problem.

Back pain can affect anyone but it is more common in people who are between 35 and 55 years of age. Low Back Pain, historically called Lumbago, affects 7 out of 10 people at some stage in their lives and 50% of pregnant women also suffer.

In the majority of cases the cause of your back problem can be linked to the way in which the bones, muscles and ligaments in your back work together and how you have been using them.

The structure of the back

The back is a complex structure consisting of:

24 bones (vertebrae) that support the weight of your upper body and form a protective canal for the spinal cord.
Intervertebral discs (shock-absorbers) that cushion the vertebral bones and allow the spine to bend.
Left and Right Sacroiliac joints that transfer weight between the spine and pelvis and help with shock absorption and stability.
Ligaments and muscles and tendons that hold the vertebrae and discs together.
The spinal cord which carries nerve signals from the brain to the rest of the body.
Spinal nerves that extend from your spinal cord to the rest of your body.

The lower part of your back is known as the 'lumbar region' and is made up of five vertebrae (L1-L5). The lumbar spine supports the entire weight of your upper body (plus any extra weight that you are carrying), and it is under constant pressure, particularly when you are bending, lifting and twisting.

The complex structure of your lower back means that even small amounts of damage to any part of the lumbar region can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

Pain in your lower back is usually a symptom of damage or stress to your ligaments, muscles, tendons or discs.
In most cases of back pain, staying active and continuing with light daily activities will normally promote healing. Back pain will usually last from a few days to a few weeks but can be longer in more severe cases.

We will be able to assess and diagnose the cause of your back pain and decide upon the appropriate physiotherapy treatment method to help restore you to pain free function. Your physiotherapy treatment will be tailored to your individual needs and will depend on the presenting symptoms and an extensive objective examination. Please see our 'treatment' pages for an overview of the types of techniques used at the practice.

The sooner we are able to assess and diagnose your back pain, the sooner we can start you on the road to recovery. This early intervention also helps prevent you developing compensatory postures and muscular adaptations which themselves can become painful and require treatment. In some cases it can prevent the onset of future chronic pain problems.

If you are currently suffering from back pain please also have a look at our website advice article on 'Acute low back pain' which you should find helpful.

Written below is a list of terms used in association with varying back problems. It is not extensive but we are able to help and advise with any of the following issues and anything relating to your back. If in doubt please give us a call and we will be happy to advise you.