Understanding Back Pain: The Top 5 Causes (and When to See a Physiotherapist)

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a physiotherapist — and for good reason. It can affect anyone, from office workers to athletes, and often appears without warning. While back pain is sometimes temporary, recurring or persistent discomfort is usually a sign that something deeper is going on.

At Core Physio, we believe understanding your pain is the first step toward lasting relief. Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of back pain and how physiotherapy can help.

1. Poor Posture

Modern life isn’t kind to our posture. Hours spent sitting at desks, driving, or looking down at phones can gradually strain the muscles and joints in your back and neck. Over time, this leads to stiffness, fatigue, and even nerve irritation.

Physiotherapy can help by identifying postural imbalances, improving joint mobility, and strengthening the muscles that support your spine. With guidance on ergonomic setup and movement habits, you’ll not only ease pain but also prevent it from returning.

2. Muscle Strain or Overuse

Lifting something awkwardly, sudden twisting, or even repetitive daily movements can cause muscle strain in the lower back. While some strains heal naturally, others can persist or worsen if not addressed properly.

Your physiotherapist will use manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises to relieve pain, restore mobility, and rebuild muscle resilience — so you can move safely and confidently again.

3. Disc or Joint Problems

Sometimes back pain comes from deeper structures such as the spinal discs or facet joints. Conditions like disc bulges, joint inflammation, or degenerative changes can cause local pain or even radiating nerve symptoms.

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in managing these issues by reducing inflammation, improving spinal stability, and teaching safe, supported movement patterns that protect your back as it heals.

4. Weak Core and Supporting Muscles

Your core muscles — the deep stabilisers around your spine and abdomen — are essential for healthy movement. When they’re weak or uncoordinated, your back is left to do more work than it should, increasing strain and fatigue.

A tailored strength and conditioning programme can help you build stability and endurance, reducing the risk of future flare-ups. At Core Physio, we design exercise plans that suit your ability and lifestyle, gradually rebuilding your body’s natural support system.

5. Stress and Tension

It might surprise you, but stress can significantly contribute to back pain. Emotional tension often causes tightness in the neck, shoulders, and lower back — and over time, this can lead to persistent discomfort.

Through manual therapy, breathing techniques, and guided movement, physiotherapy can help release muscle tension and restore a sense of balance, both physically and mentally.

When to See a Physiotherapist

If your back pain has lasted more than a few days, is worsening, or keeps returning, it’s time to see a professional. Physiotherapy offers a safe, evidence-based approach to diagnosing and treating the root cause of pain — without relying on medication or guesswork.

At Core Physio, we’ll assess your movement, identify what’s driving your symptoms, and create a personalised treatment plan to help you recover fully.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

You don’t have to live with back pain — and waiting often makes it harder to treat. Early physiotherapy intervention can reduce pain, speed up recovery, and prevent future problems.

👉 Book your consultation with Core Physio today and take the first step toward lasting comfort and confident movement.