If your back pain does not get any better, we explain how a physiotherapist can help you.
If your pain is not settling or is worsening over a period of 2-3 weeks, and is stopping you from doing your normal activities, then you should seek further advice from your GP / physiotherapist. Equally, if the pain persists but isn’t interfering with your normal activity, but goes on for more than 6 weeks, you should seek advice.
Physiotherapists are specialists in the care of lower back pain and will be able to offer sensible advice and treatment where needed, and will be tailored to your needs and based on the best evidence we have.
How a physiotherapist can help with back pain
Within physiotherapy there are specialists in the care of back pain, who can offer advice and treatment tailored to your needs.
What happens when I see a physiotherapist for back pain?
A physiotherapist will do a full and thorough assessment of you. This will include:
- taking a detailed history of your pain,
- details about your medical and family history of back pain
They will then do a physical assessment to see how you move and how your muscles, nerves and joints are working.
They will discuss with you the options available, and the best treatment programme that fits your needs. This may include a range of options such as:
- a home exercise programme for strength and mobility
- advice on pain management
- manual (hands-on) treatment
Your physiotherapist will monitor your progress with the treatment plan, and help to you get back to your normal daily life.
If you're unable to see a physio
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