More working days are lost due to lower back pain than any other condition. Lower back pain can affect as many as 3 in 5 adults.

Low Back Pain occurs in the back below the waist and it may be sudden and sharp or persistent and dull; it may radiate down to the buttocks and then down the back of the leg to the sole of the foot.

In most instances low back pain only lasts for a week or so, but many people find the problem recurs unless they alter their lifestyle and the way in which they perform daily activities. In a minority of people, persistent low back pain can cause chronic disability.

Low back pain is usually caused by minor damage to the ligaments and muscles in the back secondary to minor injury (such as a twist), overexertion (digging in the garden) or lumbar spondylosis (the natural ageing process of the spine).

The lower back is vulnerable to these problems because it supports much of the bodies weight and is under continual stress from movements such as bending or twisting. Less commonly lower back pack pain can be due to an underlying disorder such as a prolapsed or herniated (slipped disc) in the spine.

Low back pain can come on suddenly (acute) or develop gradually over a period of time. If the pain persists it’s described as chronic. Symptoms can take various forms from a sharp pain localised to a small area to a more general aching pain in the back and buttocks.

In many cases you may be able to treat back pain yourself with rest, gentle stretching and over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. If the pain persists you may need to see your doctor who may recommend other treatments.

Treatments usually include non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy or osteopathy. In the event of a slipped disc your doctor may refer you to a specialist who may recommend surgery.