Lower back pain can make ordinary tasks feel difficult, from getting dressed to sitting through a working day. The useful starting point is what has changed for you, rather than assuming that a single posture or a weak muscle explains every symptom.
Back pain can follow a strain, but sometimes there is no clear trigger. Conditions involving discs or nerves can also cause symptoms. The location of pain alone is not a diagnosis; an assessment should consider your history and any associated symptoms.
Write down when symptoms began, where you feel them and which activities are difficult. Mention pain spreading into a leg, changes in sleep and any previous injury. A few specific examples are more useful than trying to remember every uncomfortable moment.
For ordinary back pain without warning symptoms, staying active within your ability is generally preferable to prolonged bed rest. Avoid forcing an exercise that makes pain worse. If you already have a rehabilitation plan, ask how to adapt it when symptoms change.
Call 999 or go to A&E for back pain with new bladder or bowel changes, numbness around the genitals or anus, or pain, weakness, tingling or numbness in both legs. Seek emergency help after a serious accident or with chest pain. For sudden severe or rapidly worsening pain, or feeling unwell, use NHS 111.
Ask what the findings suggest, whether any uncertainty remains and why the proposed plan fits your situation. Agree an everyday goal, such as managing a journey or returning to a task, and a point at which to review progress. Ask which changes mean you should seek further advice.
For a routine enquiry, explain your main difficulty and any previous assessment. Bring relevant reports to the appointment and tell the team about current treatment. A website form is not an urgent-care service, and a fixed number of appointments cannot promise recovery.
NHS back pain information. This article provides general information; an individual assessment determines appropriate care.
Explore our physiotherapy and rehabilitation or contact the clinic with a routine enquiry.
Get ready for your appointment with useful information and next steps.
Book a consultation with our team to discuss your specific situation.