Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical advice or physiotherapy. The good news? In the vast majority of cases, back pain improves quickly and isn’t a sign of anything serious. While it can feel alarming, most back pain does not require a scan or urgent medical intervention. Instead, understanding your symptoms and seeking appropriate support can help you get back to doing the things you love.
Why You Don’t Always Need a Scan
Many people worry that their back pain might indicate a serious problem, such as a slipped disc or another structural issue. However, research shows that imaging like MRI scans is rarely necessary for most cases of lower back pain. In fact, these scans often show changes in the spine that are part of normal ageing and not the cause of pain.
What’s more important is how you feel and how your symptoms impact your life. Seeing a physiotherapist or speaking with your GP can help identify what’s causing your discomfort and the best steps for recovery.
How a Physiotherapist Can Help
Physiotherapists are experts in managing back pain. They can:
• Assess your symptoms and movement patterns to determine the likely cause of your pain
• Provide exercises to improve mobility, strength, and posture
• Offer hands-on treatments and advice to help reduce discomfort
• Guide you through strategies to manage pain and get back to your normal activities
Often, gentle movement and exercise are the best remedies for back pain. Avoiding complete rest and staying active (within your comfort level) can help speed up recovery.
When to Seek Urgent or Emergency Help
While most back pain isn’t serious, there are certain symptoms that may indicate a more urgent condition. If you experience any of the following, it’s crucial to contact your GP or visit A&E straight away:
• Severe weakness or numbness in both legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Numbness or tingling in the saddle area (around your inner thighs and groin)
• Unrelenting pain that doesn’t improve with rest, especially if it’s worse at night
These symptoms may indicate a rare but serious condition, such as cauda equina syndrome, and require immediate attention.
Take Control of Your Back Pain
If you’re experiencing back pain, remember that most cases resolve with time and the right support. Physiotherapy can play a key role in helping you move more comfortably and recover faster. If you’re unsure about your symptoms or would like tailored advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’re here to help!
Need Support?
If you’re struggling with lower back pain and want to discuss how physiotherapy could help, contact us today. Together, we can create a plan to reduce your pain and get you back to feeling your best.
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