Lower Back Pain - Causes and Advice

July 26, 2026

Why is Back Pain So Common and What Might be Causing It?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy treatment. It normally develops due to a combination of factors rather than a single cause. Most people will experience back pain at some point in their life. It could last a few days or become a longer-term problem. It can start suddenly after lifting something heavy or from an awkward movement, but it can also come on gradually with no obvious cause. In most cases, back pain improves with the right advice, movement and rehabilitation.

Muscle strain

This is one of the most common causes of back pain. It may happen after lifting, twisting, gardening, DIY or an increase in physical activity. The muscles around the spine can become painful and irritated.

Prolonged sitting or reduced movement

Sitting in one position too long can cause stiffness and discomfort. This doesn’t mean sitting is damaging your back, but regular movement throughout the day can help reduce symptoms.

Sudden changes in activity levels

Starting a new exercise programme, increasing running mileage or returning to sport after time off can put additional demands on the back if you progress too quickly.

Stress and poor sleep

Stress, anxiety and poor sleep can influence back pain and that surprises a lot of people. When we are stressed or tired, our muscles can become more tense, and our nervous system can become more sensitive to pain.

Age-related changes

As we get older it is normal for scans to show changes like disc degeneration or arthritis. This is extremely common and often appear in people who have no pain at all. It’s important to remember imaging like x-rays or MRIs do not always explain symptoms.

Previous episodes of back pain

People who have had back pain before can be more likely to experience it again. Especially if strength, fitness or confidence in movement has reduced since the initial flare of symptoms.

When should you seek advice?

Most back pain settles within a few weeks and responds well to staying active and gradually returning to normal activities.

However, it is worth seeking professional advice if:

• Your pain is severe or worsening.
• Symptoms have persisted for several weeks.
• Pain is stopping you from working, exercising or sleeping.
• You experience pain travelling down the leg, numbness or pins and needles.
• You are unsure how to return to activity safely.

How can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy aims to identify the factors contributing to your symptoms and develop a plan specifically for you. There is no single exercise or treatment that works for everyone.

This can include:

• Exercise to improve your strength and mobility.
• Education and advice on your symptoms and how to manage them.
• Support with returning to work, sport or exercise.
• Hands on treatment where appropriate.

Things to remember

Back pain is very common and can affect anyone no matter their age or fitness, it can be frustrating and worrying but most cases are not serious and improve with time, movement and the right management. If back pain is affecting your day-to-day life, a physiotherapist can help you understand your symptoms.

If you have any questions or feel you need more support, please call the clinic on 0191 285 8701 for a free telephone triage call or email info@physiotherapymatters.co.uk.