How long does physiotherapy take to work for non-specific low back pain?

Non-specific low back pain means no single serious structural cause has been identified to explain the symptoms. Physiotherapy may address guarded movement, reduced strength, work habits, sleep-related difficulty and fear of activity. Progress is measured by what you can do, not only by pain intensity. A short flare after increasing activity can occur without meaning that the back has been damaged again.

Keep gently active, break up long periods in one position and practise the exercises at the dose agreed with your therapist. Increase walking, lifting or bending in small stages, using technique and pacing rather than avoiding every sensation. Share changes in leg symptoms or function at appointments. See [Non-Specific Low Back Pain](/conditions/non-specific-low-back-pain/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Get urgent medical help for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or rapidly worsening weakness in a leg. Arrange prompt review for fever, unexplained weight loss, major trauma, severe night pain or pain that is steadily worsening.

Ask which activities should be modified, how to judge a safe increase in exercise, and what improvement to track besides pain. Ask when persistent symptoms should prompt a new examination or a different treatment approach.