How is lower back pain treated?

Lower back pain may arise from muscle strain, non-specific low back pain, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, spinal narrowing, a vertebral compression fracture or another condition. Assessment considers the pain pattern, leg symptoms, strength, sensation, movement and recent injury. Imaging is not needed for every episode, but may be considered when findings suggest a structural problem or when symptoms do not settle.

Keep changing position and take short walks if these are comfortable; prolonged bed rest can make movement harder. Use heat or cold according to which feels better, with a barrier for the skin. A physiotherapist can prescribe exercises for trunk endurance, hip movement and safe lifting. A clinician may discuss medication after reviewing stomach, kidney, pregnancy and other health considerations. Treatment is adjusted if pain travels down a leg or causes walking difficulty.

Book an assessment for persistent, recurrent or limiting pain, especially after a fall or with unexplained weight change, fever or a history of fragile bones. Seek urgent care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, marked leg weakness, or severe pain after significant trauma.

What is the likely source of my pain? Which movements should I continue? Would physiotherapy help? Do my symptoms suggest nerve involvement or a need for imaging?