Lower Back Pain: Why Does My Back Hurt and What Can I Do About It?
Lower Back Pain Making Everyday Tasks Difficult?
Putting your socks on. Getting out of the car. Picking up your child. You probably don’t think twice about these movements—until your lower back starts hurting.
Perhaps there’s a sharp catch when you bend, an ache that builds while sitting, or stiffness that makes getting out of bed a slow process. You might be avoiding exercise, sleeping poorly or wondering whether moving will make things worse.
You don’t need to know exactly what’s causing your back pain before asking for help.
I’m Sarah Boughtwood, a Master’s-qualified osteopath in Milford, Auckland, with over 10 years’ clinical experience. I’ll take time to understand your symptoms, assess your movement and discuss suitable care for you.
Book a lower back pain appointment with Sarah
ACC registered · No referral required · Free onsite parking
Does This Sound Like Your Back Pain?
Lower back pain doesn’t have to be constant to interfere with your life. You might notice:
A sharp catch when bending to get dressed.
Aching after sitting at your desk or driving.
Difficulty straightening up after gardening.
Pain when lifting shopping, laundry or your child.
Stiffness when getting out of a chair.
Discomfort turning in bed or finding a comfortable sleeping position.
Sometimes the biggest frustration is having to think carefully about movements that used to feel effortless.
At your appointment, I want to hear about those moments. Knowing what you’re struggling with helps us set goals that matter to you.
Why Does My Lower Back Hurt?
Back pain can begin after lifting, an unfamiliar workout or a busy weekend. Other times, it develops gradually without an obvious trigger.
Many episodes are described as non-specific lower back pain: there isn’t one clearly identifiable structure responsible for the symptoms. This doesn’t make your pain any less real. healthnz.govt.nz
An assessment helps us explore your symptoms, consider possible contributors and decide what care is appropriate. If pain travels down your leg or you have tingling, numbness or weakness, tell me when booking, as these symptoms may need additional assessment.
How I Approach Lower Back Pain
Your appointment starts with a conversation, rather than going straight to the treatment table.
I’ll ask when the pain began, what changes it, how it affects your day and what you’d like to get back to doing. We’ll also discuss your medical history and any previous treatment.
I’ll then assess your movement and carry out relevant checks. Before treatment, I’ll explain what I find, what remains uncertain and the options available.
Depending on your needs, your care may include:
Hands-on treatment for muscles and joints.
Exercises suited to your symptoms and current ability.
Practical ways to manage uncomfortable activities.
A gradual plan for returning to exercise or usual tasks.
Referral or further investigation where appropriate.
Hands-on care can form part of a broader approach that includes exercise and advice, rather than being the whole recovery plan. NICE
Your comfort and preferences matter. We’ll discuss any proposed techniques, and you can ask questions or request a different approach.
Book an appointment to discuss your back pain
What Can I Do While Waiting for My Appointment?
For many people with uncomplicated lower back pain, keeping gently active is more helpful than prolonged bed rest. Try short, manageable periods of movement and change position regularly rather than staying still for hours. Build activity gradually and seek advice if symptoms worsen. NHS
You don’t need to force a painful stretch or follow every exercise you find online. Suitable advice depends on your symptoms, health and what you can currently manage.
When Does Back Pain Need Urgent Medical Attention?
Go to an emergency department urgently if back pain comes with new difficulty passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around your genitals or bottom, or severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs.
Seek prompt medical advice if your pain follows a significant accident, starts suddenly and severely, worsens quickly, or occurs with fever or feeling generally unwell. These situations need medical assessment rather than waiting for a routine osteopathy appointment.
Seeing Sarah in Milford
You’ll find me at Milford Health Clinic, 50 East Coast Road, Milford, with free onsite parking.
I welcome general patients as well as those seeking pregnancy and postpartum care. Babies, children and support people are welcome to come along to your appointment.
Do I need a referral?
No—you can book directly.
Can I book through ACC?
ACC appointments are available for eligible injuries. If you’re unsure which appointment to choose, contact me for guidance.
How many appointments will I need?
This depends on your symptoms, assessment and response to care. We’ll discuss a plan and review your progress rather than assume everyone needs the same number of visits.
Let’s Work Towards More Comfortable Movement
Whether your goal is getting through the working day, lifting your child or returning to the gym, your appointment is a chance to explain what’s happening and understand your next steps.
You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
