Musculoskeletal health
Low back pain: when to seek physiotherapy
What to consider, early steps and the role of an individual assessment for low back pain.
Low back pain is common and can have many causes. Many episodes improve with time, appropriate movement and guidance, while an assessment can help explain limitations and plan a return to activity.
When physiotherapy may help
Consider an assessment when pain limits daily tasks, persists, repeatedly returns or creates fear of movement. A physiotherapist considers your history, symptoms, mobility and daily demands.
Gradual movement
Prolonged rest is not always the best response. When safe, staying tolerably active and gradually resuming movement is often preferable. There is no universal exercise: choices depend on assessment and individual response.
Signs that need medical attention
Seek urgent medical help for recent loss of bladder or bowel control, altered sensation around the groin, significant sudden weakness, fever with severe pain, major trauma or other worrying symptoms. These signs should not be managed through online information alone.