01What is lower back pain?
Lower back pain is pain felt between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the legs. It is one of the most common health problems worldwide and affects people of every age and occupation.
In most cases, doctors and physiotherapists describe it as “non-specific” back pain. This means no single structure can be blamed, and that is actually reassuring – it usually indicates that there is no serious underlying disease. Pain can still be intense, but intensity does not necessarily equal damage.
02Common symptoms
- Aching or sharp pain in the lower back, sometimes spreading into the buttocks
- Stiffness when getting up from bed or a chair
- Pain with bending, lifting, prolonged sitting or standing
- Muscle spasm or feeling “stuck”
- Pain that varies through the day and with activity
03Possible causes and risk factors
- Lifting, twisting or an unusual activity, sometimes with no clear trigger at all
- Long periods of sitting or driving
- Low general fitness and reduced trunk and hip strength
- Stress, poor sleep and low mood, which can heighten pain
- Previous episodes of back pain
04How a physiotherapy assessment helps
Your assessment with Dr. Pankaj B. LokhandeBPTh, MPTh (Ortho & Sports), PhD Scholar (MUHS)
We start by screening for rare but serious causes. We then examine how your back moves, which positions ease or aggravate symptoms, hip and trunk strength, and how pain affects your work and daily life.
Together we set realistic goals – for example, sitting through a working day, lifting a child or getting back to the gym.
05Rehabilitation approaches we may use
Understanding your pain
Clear, evidence-based explanations that reduce worry and help you stay active.
Graded activity
A plan to gradually increase walking, sitting tolerance and everyday tasks.
Exercise therapy
Strengthening and movement exercises tailored to what you find manageable.
Manual therapy
Hands-on techniques may be used alongside exercise for short-term relief.
Lifting and work advice
Practical strategies for lifting, desk work and driving.
Flare-up plan
What to do if pain returns, so you feel in control.
Your plan is chosen after assessment. Not every approach listed here is suitable for every person.
06Who may benefit
- People with recent (acute) lower back pain
- People whose back pain has lasted more than 12 weeks (persistent pain)
- Desk workers, drivers and people with physical jobs
- Those with recurring flare-ups
07Safety precautions
- Avoid long bed rest; short rest periods followed by gentle movement are usually better.
- Increase activity gradually rather than all at once.
- Tell us about osteoporosis, cancer history, recent infection or significant trauma.
08When to see a doctor first
- Numbness around the genitals, buttocks or inner thighs
- Difficulty passing urine or loss of bladder or bowel control
- Weakness in both legs
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, or pain after a major fall or accident
09Frequently asked questions
How long does back pain last?
Many acute episodes improve significantly within a few weeks, but it varies. Some people have pain for longer or experience recurrences; physiotherapy can help in both situations.
Should I get an X-ray or MRI?
Guidelines do not recommend routine imaging for non-specific low back pain. Imaging is useful when serious pathology is suspected or when results would change treatment.
Is a back belt helpful?
Belts and braces are not generally recommended for long-term use. Staying active and building strength are usually more useful.
Can I keep working with back pain?
Often yes, sometimes with temporary adjustments. Staying at or returning to work is usually associated with better recovery.
This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an individual assessment. Recovery varies from person to person. See our medical disclaimer.
