Did you know that approximately 8 in 10 people experience bouts of lower back pain at some point in their life? While the exact cause of pain can be unclear, it’s usually not connected to a serious disease or back problem.
That said, lower back pain can still be distressing and worrying, potentially even leading to time off work. So, what can you do about it? Read on to discover our top tips for managing lower back pain, including the benefits of physiotherapy in Twickenham.
Please bear in mind that although the information and tips in this blog are helpful when managing lower back pain, for specific advice and guidance, please contact a physiotherapist for a professional assessment.
What is lower back pain?
While there are a few different types of lower back pain, the most common type is known as non-specific low back pain. It earned this name because, in most people, the exact cause of the pain is difficult to diagnose. Although at Body Logic Physiotherapy, through our extensive experience, we can usually pinpoint the main source of the pain and then target this area.
Factors that can contribute to low back pain can include a mix of biological, psychological and social factors, e.g. your activity levels.
Non-specific lower back pain is rarely linked to a serious condition. While symptoms may settle on their own, they can also keep returning. In some cases, pain can last longer than a few weeks.
Short-term vs chronic back pain
Lower back pain is classified as short term or chronic. This depends on how long you’ve experienced the pain. If the pain has lasted for more than 3 months, it’s referred to as chronic back pain. Fortunately, short-term back pain is more common — managing lower back pain through physiotherapy can prevent it from becoming chronic.
Managing lower back pain
While most people recover from an episode of lower back pain in 6–8 weeks, it’s common for the pain to return. A combination of staying active, reducing stress through simple relaxation techniques and physiotherapy can help you find soothing relief. You can also take over-the-counter painkillers to manage your pain.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy is a holistic approach that helps restore movement and function while reducing pain. Using hands-on techniques, such as manipulation, mobilisation, soft tissue techniques, it can help manage and treat lower back pain. Physiotherapy is particularly important to help prevent progression from short-term to chronic back pain.
Preventing future back pain
It’s important to stay active when dealing with back pain as inactivity can cause muscle weakness and stiffness. While resting in bed may sound beneficial, it can actually make your pain last longer.
Get in touch
If lower back pain is preventing you from doing the things you love or living comfortably, we are here to help. Please feel free to call us on 020 8898 1231 to learn more about how physiotherapy can benefit you. We will be happy to answer any of your questions and provide more information.