Physiotherapist assessing a patient with back pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy — yet many patients are surprised to learn what's actually causing it. Here's a clearer picture of where back pain comes from, and what genuinely helps.

1. Poor Posture Over Time

Hours spent sitting, especially with poor desk setup, gradually weakens the muscles that support your spine. This isn't usually a single injury — it's cumulative strain that builds up over months or years.

2. Muscle Imbalances

When some muscle groups (like your core) are weaker than others, your back compensates, leading to overuse and pain. This is one of the most common patterns we see in clinic assessments.

3. Disc-Related Issues

Bulging or herniated discs can press on nearby nerves, causing pain that sometimes radiates into the legs (sciatica). These cases benefit from a carefully designed, progressive exercise program.

4. Previous Injury That Wasn't Fully Rehabilitated

An old injury that wasn't properly rehabilitated can leave behind weakness or compensatory movement patterns, setting the stage for recurring pain later on.

5. Sedentary Lifestyle

Counterintuitively, too much rest can make back pain worse. Movement, when guided correctly, is usually part of the solution — not something to avoid.

Our approach: We start every back pain assessment by identifying the actual movement pattern causing your pain — not just treating the painful area in isolation.

When to See a Physiotherapist

If your back pain has lasted more than a couple of weeks, or keeps recurring, it's worth getting assessed. Early intervention typically leads to faster, more complete recovery. Our Birmingham physiotherapy team also supports ongoing pain management plans for chronic cases.