Lower Back Pain

Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes & Treatments

Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy. Whether it’s a sudden acute injury or a chronic condition, back pain can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, our Stoke-on-Trent clinics specialise in hands-on treatments to relieve pain and restore mobility.

At our clinics in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme, we specialise in identifying the root causes of lower back pain and delivering effective, hands-on treatments tailored to each individual. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help you return to your everyday activities with confidence and ease.

Understanding the Anatomy of the Lower Back

The lumbar spine consists of:
✔️ 5 vertebrae (L1-L5) – Provide support and flexibility.
✔️ Intervertebral discs – Act as shock absorbers.
✔️ Facet joints – Allow smooth spinal movement.
✔️ Muscles & ligaments – Support posture and movement.
✔️ Spinal nerves – Control sensation & muscle function in the lower body.

When any of these structures are irritated, inflamed, or injured, they can cause pain, stiffness, and nerve-related symptoms.

Common Lower Back Pathologies & Conditions

Disc Herniation (Slipped Disc)

What is it? When an intervertebral disc bulges or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves.
Causes: Heavy lifting, poor posture, aging, repetitive strain.
Symptoms:
🔹 Sharp, shooting pain in the lower back.
🔹 Radiating pain down the leg (sciatica).
🔹 Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.

Sciatica (Nerve Compression)

What is it? Irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the feet.
Causes: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tight piriformis muscle.
Symptoms:
🔹 Burning or shooting pain down the leg.
🔹 Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg/foot.
🔹 Worsened pain when sitting for long periods.

Facet Joint Syndrome

What is it? Inflammation or degeneration of the facet joints in the spine.
Causes: Poor posture, osteoarthritis, repetitive movements.
Symptoms:
🔹 Localised lower back pain.
🔹 Stiffness in the morning.
🔹 Increased pain when arching the back.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (SI Joint Pain)

What is it? Dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint, where the spine meets the pelvis.
Causes: Pregnancy, trauma, muscle imbalances, poor biomechanics.
Symptoms:
🔹 Pain in the lower back or buttocks.
🔹 Discomfort when standing or walking for long periods.
🔹 Stiffness and restricted movement.

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

What is it? Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves.
Causes: Age-related degeneration, arthritis, disc bulges.
Symptoms:
🔹 Lower back pain with prolonged standing/walking.
🔹 Numbness or tingling in the legs.
🔹 Relief when sitting or bending forward.

How Our Clinic Can Help

At Maximum Performance Sports Therapy Injury Clinic, we specialise in treating and preventing injuries in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme. Our experienced team offers a range of hands-on treatments, including:

Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Release to alleviate tightness and improve mobility.
Spinal manipulation and mobilisation.
Shockwave Therapy & Ultrasound Therapy for pain relief and accelerated healing.
Custom Rehabilitation Programs tailored to your running goals.
Gait Analysis & Biomechanical Assessments to correct posture and body movement.
Taping & Bracing Solutions to support injured areas and prevent further damage.

What to Expect During Treatment

Initial Consultation: Our specialists will assess your condition and discuss your symptoms.
Customised Treatment Plan including rehabilitation exercises: Based on your diagnosis, we create a personalised approach.
Ongoing Care and Monitoring: We track your progress to ensure optimal results.

If you're struggling with lower back injury or want to stay proactive in preventing one, book an appointment with us today. Our expert team will help you recover, strengthen, and optimise your performance—so you can keep running strong and pain-free!

What to book in for?

For a full assessment, treatment, advise, exercise plan etc... Book for a Initial Consultation & Treatment service.

Book Here