Low back pain is the most common reason people seek physiotherapy. The vast majority is non-specific mechanical pain: sensitive, sometimes intensely painful, but not dangerous. Sciatica describes leg pain, tingling or numbness caused by irritation of a nerve root in the lower back.
Common patterns we see
- Sudden onset after lifting, twisting or an awkward movement, often with muscle spasm and difficulty straightening.
- Gradual, activity-related pain linked to prolonged sitting, driving or a change in training load.
- Recurrent flare-ups every few months, each one eroding confidence in your back.
- Sciatica: pain, pins and needles or numbness travelling below the knee, sometimes with weakness.
What an online assessment covers
We map how your pain behaves through the day, what eases and aggravates it, your work and training demands, sleep and stress. On camera we look at how you bend, extend, sit and stand, test nerve mobility where relevant, and screen for signs that need medical review. You leave with an explanation in plain language and a first plan: usually a mix of movement you can tolerate, positions of relief, gradual loading and a return-to-activity timeline.
First steps you can take today
- Keep moving within tolerance. Short, frequent walks usually beat bed rest.
- Experiment with positions: many people find lying with knees bent, or gentle repeated extension or flexion, eases symptoms.
- Use heat and, if appropriate and safe for you, simple pain relief to keep active.
- Avoid prolonged static postures. Change position every 30 minutes.
How long does recovery take?
Most acute episodes improve substantially within two to six weeks. Sciatica can take longer, often 6 to 12 weeks, and a graded plan reduces the risk of it becoming persistent. Follow-ups are usually every one to three weeks early on, then spaced out as confidence returns.