Lower back pain is a common pain that many experience. While in many cases, the pain dissipates over time, for some, it requires professional intervention. It can be a debilitating pain that impacts your quality of life, so it is important that you visit a practice that takes your symptoms seriously.
If your lower back pain continues and is impacting your daily life, it is worth getting assessed by a physiotherapist. But for some, it can be hard to accept when they need help. Join us in this blog as we outline when you should seek help, what a physio does and what you should expect.
When Should You See A Physio For Lower Back Pain?
There is a range of triggers you should keep an eye out for if suffering from lower back pain. The main one you need to take note of is if your lower back pain persists for several days without improving or settling. This is a sign that you need to be assessed by a professional. The same goes for those suffering from recurring episodes.
If your pain is affecting sleep, work, driving, exercise, or daily tasks, this is another trigger for seeking the professional help of a physiotherapist. Stiffness, weakness or reduced mobility should also be assessed by a trained physio.
What Will A Physio Do For Lower Back Pain?
The physiotherapy process is simple and reassuring. It focuses on the root cause of your pain, whilst looking at the whole body for aggravating factors. When you visit a physiotherapist, they will ask about your symptoms, triggers and the impact they are having on your daily life. They will then assess your movement, strength, posture and mobility.
Once they have all the appropriate information, they will then create a personalised treatment plan to get you back feeling your best.
What Treatment Might Help?
A trained physiotherapist will identify the best course of action for you and your lower back pain. It predominantly depends on the cause of your lower back pain, as not all treatments will be as effective if not suitable. Your physiotherapist will offer movement and exercise advice alongside strength and mobility work for you to complete.
Where you may see a lot of benefit from a physio is in the guidance they offer when it comes to your lower back in action. They may offer advice on improving posture, lifting and other activities.
Where appropriate, they will provide manual therapy to help aid your treatment process. They aim to reduce flare-ups and to build your confidence that your body is capable, ultimately providing a higher quality of life.
Do You Need A Scan Before Seeing A Physio?
You do not typically need a scan before seeing a physiotherapist. Routine imaging is generally not recommended in non-specialist settings unless serious underlying pathology is suspected. If you do suspect this, please seek guidance from your GP first before booking with a physiotherapist.
When Should You Get Urgent Medical Advice?
Lower back pain can also be a sign of more serious issues that, in most cases, require urgent medical help. These are uncommon, but it is important to seek medical advice immediately if you are suffering from any of the following symptoms:
- New bladder or bowel problems.
- Numbness around the saddle area.
- Significant leg weakness.
- Severe symptoms after trauma.
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, or feeling unwell with back pain
What To Wear To Physio For Lower Back Pain
A common question we get asked by patients is “What should I wear for my physio session?”. For your lower back pain physio session, you should wear something comfortable, loose and easy to move in. They should also allow easy access to the lower back/hips if needed. We would also recommend you bring trainers if exercises are involved.
Physio Or Chiropractor For Lower Back Pain?
The ideal choice between physio or chiropractor for lower back pain depends on symptoms, goals and your personal preference. Physiotherapy may suit people wanting assessment, exercise rehab, movement coaching, and recovery planning. If your pain is persistent or affecting function, consulting the help of a fully-trained physiotherapist is a sensible first step.
Book Support For Lower Back Pain In Berkshire
If you’re suffering from lower back pain and are seeking the help of a professional physiotherapist in the Berkshire area, why not choose The Orchard Clinic? Our personal and helpful team are on hand to help you with whatever symptoms you may have, providing expert advice and treatment to people across Berkshire. For more information or to book an appointment, please get in touch.
FAQs
What Can A Physio Do For Lower Back Pain?
A physiotherapist can help curate a treatment plan to alleviate lower back pain and minimise the chance of future flare-ups.
Do I Need A Scan Before Seeing A Physio For Lower Back Pain?
No, you do not need a scan before seeing a physio for lower back pain. If your pain is persistent or affecting your daily life, you should book an appointment with a physiotherapist.
What Should I Wear To Physio For Lower Back Pain?
You should wear something comfortable, loose and easy to move in for a physio session focusing on the lower back. Easy access to the lower back/hips is advised. Trainers also recommended any potential exercises.
