Dull, constant back pain giving you grief?
Back Pain: Understanding the Cause, Finding Relief, and the Role of Osteopathy
Back pain doesn’t discriminate. It affects people of all ages, from active individuals to those with more sedentary routines. For some, it’s a dull ache that lingers. For others, it can be a sharp, sudden discomfort that stops them in their tracks. Whatever the type, back pain can be disruptive and frustrating.
The good news is, with the right support and understanding, back pain is something you can manage – and often resolve.
Why Does Back Pain Happen?
Your back is a complex structure of bones, joints, muscles, discs, and nerves. Pain can stem from any one of these components, often as a result of:
Prolonged poor posture – particularly from desk or device use
Muscle overuse or weakness – from repetitive strain or lack of support
Lifting or twisting awkwardly
Disc issues – including bulging or herniation
Inflammation in spinal joints
Stress – which can contribute to muscle tension and pain
Previous injuries or imbalance in other parts of the body (hips, pelvis, shoulders)
Lower back pain is the most common, but pain can also arise in the upper or mid-back, especially if posture or movement patterns are compromised.
Symptoms to Monitor
Back pain symptoms can vary in location and intensity, but some of the more common signs include:
Aching, tightness, or sharp pain in the lower or mid-back
Pain aggravated by sitting, standing, or lifting
Morning stiffness that eases with movement
Discomfort that radiates into the hips or legs
Muscle spasms or cramping
Be cautious if you notice:
Back pain following a fall or injury
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
Difficulty walking, or changes in bladder or bowel control
Unexplained weight loss with back pain
Pain accompanied by fever or feeling unwell
If any of these occur, seek medical evaluation promptly, as they could indicate more serious issues.
What You Can Do at Home
If your back pain is mild to moderate, there are several things you can try to support recovery and reduce discomfort:
Stay mobile – Gentle movement like walking or stretching is often better than complete rest
Check your workspace – Poor desk or screen setup is a major contributor to pain
Apply heat or cold – Heat can ease tension; cold may help reduce inflammation
Stretch carefully – Focus on the lower back, hips, and hamstrings
Activate your core – Strengthening deep abdominal and gluteal muscles supports the spine
Limit heavy lifting – And when you must, lift with your legs, not your back
How Osteopathy Can Help with Back Pain
Osteopathy offers a whole-body approach to diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of back pain, not just the symptoms. We assess how your spine, joints, muscles, and posture all interact to uncover the root of the issue.
Treatment may include:
Gentle hands-on techniques to release muscle tightness
Mobilisation of spinal joints and surrounding structures
Support for improving movement and flexibility
Postural and ergonomic advice
Tailored exercises to help strengthen and prevent recurrence
Osteopathic care is suitable for both recent and longstanding back pain and is always adapted to your unique needs and comfort level.
Don’t Let Back Pain Linger
Back pain often responds well to early intervention. The longer it is left untreated, the more likely it is to become a chronic issue that interferes with sleep, work, and day-to-day function. Whether your pain is new or something you've been managing for a while, we’re here to help you move better and feel better.