Where does it hurt?
Tap the area that hurts to see its most common causes, the signs of each, and how physiotherapy helps.
This guide can't diagnose you. A physio can tell you what's causing your pain, so message or call us if you're unsure.
Body seen from behind
Showing: Lower Back & Spine
Body regions
Common causes of lower back & spine pain
Slip disc
Medical name: Lumbar Disc Bulge / Slip Disc
The soft centre of a disc pushes outwards and can irritate a nearby nerve. The large majority settle without surgery.
- Back pain worse on sitting or bending
- Pain travelling into the leg
Sciatica (pain running down the leg)
Medical name: Sciatica
A symptom rather than a diagnosis: irritation of the sciatic nerve causing pain along its path down the leg.
- Sharp or burning pain down the back of the leg
- Pins and needles in the calf or foot
Everyday lower back pain
Medical name: Non-Specific Low Back Pain
The most common form of back pain, with no single damaged structure. It responds well to movement and reassurance.
- Diffuse ache across the lower back
- Stiff after sitting or in the morning
Back pain and heavy legs when walking
Medical name: Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal, most often age-related, which crowds the nerves as they leave the spine.
- Leg heaviness when walking
- Relief on sitting or leaning forward
One-sided pain at the base of the spine
Medical name: Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Pain from the joint between the pelvis and the base of the spine, common in pregnancy and after a fall.
- One-sided pain just below the belt line
- Pain rolling over in bed
Still not sure what's causing your pain?
Talk to a physio for free on WhatsApp or by phone. They'll tell you whether you need an in-clinic assessment. Prefer a form? Book online