Why do I have back pain?
Whether it is a new onset of pain or a long term issue, pain in the lower (lumbar) part of your spine can be both a worrying and debilitating problem. The good news is that it can often be prevented and managed by addressing and changing lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the ongoing pain such as a lack of movement in your daily routine or medical influences such as weight, which combined with a tailored physiotherapy treatment plan can have a real impact on improving conditions that cause lower back pain.
Should I see a physiotherapist for back pain?
Sudden onset of lower back pain can be incredibly painful. It often involves the muscles and other soft tissue (e.g tendons) along with pain in the spine itself when moving and is usually caused by activity such as picking up a heavy object, or sometimes there is no obvious reason at all. In most cases, a full assessment by a qualified physiotherapist will identify any contributing lifestyle factors and a plan to change those, give you a series of exercises in a tailored treatment plan, and guidance on how to safely return to your normal daily activities. This combination usually resolves most back pain within around 2 weeks. Often it can simply be reassuring to hear from a qualified professional that there is nothing serious and how exactly you can feel better faster, without doing any further damage.
Do I need an MRI for back pain?
The short answer is…probably not.
MRI scans are rarely useful in these cases as they are not ‘pain scans’ and will be unlikely to show anything that will change how you should manage it. Taking to your bed for 2 weeks is also not usually recommended (as much as we would all like a good excuse for that from time to time!), as a gradual return to normal activities can help improve the rehabilitation process for your back pain.
In some instances, for example where there is pain, numbness or weakness in the legs, or changes to other bodily functions such as bladder and bowel changes, your clinician will be able to evaluate your range of symptoms and discuss if an MRI is advisable.
What should I do if I’m having back pain?
Ultimately, you know your body better than anyone and if something isn’t right it can be both beneficial and reassuring to know as much as you can. If you aren’t sure whether to seek physiotherapy treatment for your back pain, I offer 10 minute phone appointments to discuss your condition before you commit to booking a full appointment. If my phone assessment determines that you would benefit from physiotherapy, then the cost of the phone assessment is deducted from your first appointment.
To book online click here
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