Lower Back Pain

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

Tension, soreness and stiffness in the lower back affects 8 out of 10 people in the UK at some time in their life, with 1 in five of all primary care consultations are for non-specific lower back pain. Lower back pain is rarely caused by a serious underlying cause, even if you are in a lot of pain.

Symptoms can often last for weeks or months, with occasional twinges and aches. 60% of patients recovering within 6 months and 80 to 90% recovering within 12 weeks. Back pain is likely to resolve itself without the need for medical treatment or surgery and you are unlikely to need x-rays or any other tests. Despite the pain, try and get back to normal activities as soon as possible.

What can I do to help?

• Back exercises
  • Simple back exercises, improving your posture, yoga and the Alexander Technique (https://www.livehealthily.com/alternative-medicine/alexander-technique)
  • Other treatments that may help improve symptoms include physiotherapy, acupuncture or seeing a chiropractor.
• Keep moving and sleep right
  • Remaining as active as possible and avoiding lying in bed, even if you are uncomfortable will help improve the long-term recovery from the back pain. Trying different sleeping positions can help take the strain off your back, placing a pillow between your legs or under your needs if you prefer lying on your back.
• Hot and Cold therapy
  • We have a range of reusable sports packs available for hot and cold therapy which conform to your body easing stiffness and soothing pain.
• Pain relief medication
  • Rub-on gels and ointments as well as oral painkillers can be effective in most cases. Stronger medications are available where lower strengths are not treating the pain. Speak to your pharmacist for more advice and always read the information in the pack.
• Work Smart and Lifting technique
  • Trying to stay at work or discussing with your employer safe options for a phased return to work such as altered hours, amended roles or workplace adaptations can be helpful in the long-term. If you can’t avoid lifting heavy items focus on getting a good lifting technique, lift close to your body, bending your knees instead of your back. 

When should I seek medical attention?

Contact your GP if symptoms do not improve within three days, or the pain returns regularly for more than six weeks or if you have any of the following: 

• Severe pain that is worsening
• Your feel unwell from your back or have a fever (temperature over 38C)
• The pain radiates from your back travelling up into higher areas of your chest
• Pain starting after a major injury
• Aged under 20 or older than 50 years
• Suffer from night-time pain affecting your sleep
• You are unsteady on your feet since the pain started
• You have lost weight for no obvious reason

Seek urgent medical advice if you suffer from the following:

• Unusual sensations such as numbness or pins and needles in the area around your bottom, genitals or both legs
• You are suffering from urinary symptoms
• You lose control of your bowel