Overview
Back pain is very common. For many people, it improves with simple care and time. However, sometimes back pain can be a sign of an underlying issue that needs professional assessment and guided treatment.
If your back pain is not improving, keeps coming back, or is affecting your daily activities, it’s a good idea to get it assessed by a physiotherapist.
Common causes of back pain
Back pain can happen for many reasons, including:
- Muscle strain from lifting, poor posture or sudden movements
- Disc-related issues such as a slipped or bulging disc
- Joint stiffness or arthritis
- Prolonged sitting or lack of movement
- Previous injury or surgery
Warning signs
Most back pain is not serious. But some symptoms need urgent medical care. Call Rescue 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Loss of control of your bladder or bowel
- Numbness around your groin or buttocks
- Sudden or worsening weakness in your legs
- Back pain with fever, or after a serious fall or accident
How physiotherapy helps
A physiotherapist looks at how you move, what makes your pain better or worse, and how it affects your day. From there, treatment usually combines:
- Clear advice about what is safe and what to avoid
- Hands-on treatment to ease pain and stiffness
- Exercises to restore movement and build strength
- Practical changes to sitting, lifting and sleeping
What to expect
Your first session usually takes 45–60 minutes. We’ll listen to your story, assess your movement and explain what we find in plain language. You’ll leave with a plan and a few exercises you can start straight away.
Key takeaways
- Most back pain improves, but it’s worth getting help if it lasts, returns or limits your life.
- Know the warning signs that need urgent care.
- Staying gently active is usually better than resting in bed.
FAQs
Should I rest completely when my back hurts?
A day or two of rest can help, but staying gently active usually helps back pain recover faster than bed rest.
Do I need a scan before seeing a physiotherapist?
Most back pain does not need a scan. Your physiotherapist will tell you if your symptoms suggest one would be useful.
How many sessions will I need?
It varies. Many people notice improvement within a few sessions; you’ll get a clear estimate after your assessment.
