Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy — and for good reason. It can affect daily activities, work performance, exercise and sleep. While back pain is common, it's not something you have to "just live with".
Common causes of lower back pain
- Prolonged sitting or poor posture
- Muscle strain or overload
- Disc irritation or bulge
- Reduced core strength
- Previous injury
- Sudden increases in activity or lifting
In many cases, pain is not caused by a single structure but by a combination of muscle tension, joint stiffness and reduced movement control.
Should I rest or keep moving?
One of the biggest myths about back pain is that rest is the best solution. While short periods of rest may help in the early stages, gentle movement and guided exercise are often key to recovery.
Avoiding movement for too long can lead to stiffness, weakness and ongoing pain.
How physiotherapy helps
Physiotherapy focuses on addressing the cause of your pain, not just the symptoms. Treatment may include:
- Hands-on therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve mobility
- Individualised exercises to restore strength and control
- Postural and ergonomic advice
- Education to reduce fear and prevent recurrence
Your physio will also help you understand what movements are safe, which activities to modify, and how to return to normal activity with confidence.
When should you see a physio?
You should consider physiotherapy if:
- Pain lasts longer than a few days
- Pain keeps returning
- Pain affects work, sleep, or exercise
- You're unsure how to safely stay active
Early treatment often leads to faster and more complete recovery. If lower back pain is limiting your day-to-day life, our physiotherapists can help — book an appointment today.