Common Causes of Lower Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare treatment in the UK. It can affect people of all ages and lifestyles — from office workers and busy parents to runners, gym-goers and retirees.

For some people, back pain comes on suddenly after lifting, bending or exercising. For others, it develops gradually over time due to posture, repetitive strain, stress or age-related changes within the spine.

At Guildford Chiropractic Centre, we regularly assess and treat a wide range of back pain conditions. Below are some of the most common causes of lower back pain we see in clinic.

Please note: the information below is intended as general guidance only and should not replace a full assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Irritated Middle and Lower Back Joints

Also known as facet joint irritation or facet joint dysfunction.

Your spine is made up of many small joints that allow you to bend, twist and move comfortably. If these joints become stiff, irritated or inflamed, they can lead to localised pain and reduced mobility.

This type of back pain is often associated with:

• Prolonged sitting or desk work

• Poor posture

• Repetitive strain

• Sudden awkward movements

• Reduced physical activity

  
  

Symptoms may include:

• Pain in the lower or middle back

• Stiffness after sitting

• Pain when bending backwards or twisting

• Muscle tightness or spasms

• Pain referring into the buttocks or thighs

  
  

Many people describe this type of pain as feeling “locked”, stiff or difficult to move through.

Lumbar Disc Injury

Also referred to as a disc bulge, slipped disc or disc herniation.

Between each vertebra sits a spinal disc which acts as a shock absorber. Under strain, part of the disc may bulge or become irritated, sometimes placing pressure on nearby nerves.

Disc-related problems can develop suddenly or gradually over time.

Common symptoms include:

• Lower back pain

• Pain travelling into the buttock or leg

• Sciatica

• Tingling or numbness

• Tightness in the leg muscles

• Pain when sitting, bending or coughing

  
  

Not all disc injuries are severe, and many improve well with appropriate management, movement advice and rehabilitation.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

The sacroiliac joints (SI joints) connect the base of the spine to the pelvis and help transfer force between the upper and lower body.

If these joints become irritated, stiff or overly mobile, they can contribute to pain around the lower back, pelvis and hips.

This type of pain may be triggered by:

• Pregnancy

• Lifting strain

• Running and sport

• Uneven loading through the pelvis

• Prolonged standing or sitting

  
  

Symptoms may include:

• Pain on one side of the lower back

• Pain around the buttock

• Pain when turning in bed

• Discomfort climbing stairs

• Symptoms that mimic sciatica

  
  

Because SI joint pain can resemble other conditions, a proper assessment is important.

Arthritis in the Lower Back

Also known as lumbar spondylosis or spinal osteoarthritis.

As we get older, the joints and discs in the spine naturally undergo wear and tear. For some people this can contribute to stiffness, inflammation and reduced movement.

Common symptoms include:

• Morning stiffness

• Reduced spinal mobility

• Pain after inactivity

• General aching in the lower back

• Difficulty standing upright after sitting

  
  

Although arthritis cannot be reversed, many people can improve their mobility and remain active with the right combination of movement, exercise and hands-on care.

Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle

Modern lifestyles place significant strain on the spine.

Long hours sitting at desks, driving, working from laptops or spending time looking down at phones can all contribute to ongoing muscle tension and joint irritation.

Over time this may lead to:

• Tight hips and hamstrings

• Weak core muscles

• Reduced spinal mobility

• Increased muscular tension

• Recurring flare-ups of back pain

  
  

Movement, strength and postural awareness often play an important role in long-term back health.

Stress and Muscle Tension

Stress can have a surprisingly strong effect on the body.

Many people unconsciously tense their shoulders, back and hips during stressful periods, leading to increased muscular tightness and discomfort.

This can contribute to:

• Persistent tension

• Reduced movement

• Increased sensitivity to pain

• Difficulty relaxing muscles properly

  
  

Back pain is rarely caused by one single factor alone. Often there is a combination of physical, lifestyle and stress-related contributors.

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

It’s a good idea to seek professional assessment if:

• Your pain is persistent or worsening

• You have pain travelling into the leg

• You are experiencing numbness or weakness

• Your movement is becoming restricted

• Pain is affecting sleep, work or daily activities

• You are repeatedly experiencing flare-ups

A proper assessment can help identify the likely cause of symptoms and guide appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.

Back Pain Treatment in Guildford

At Guildford Chiropractic Centre, we take an evidence-informed and whole-body approach to back pain care.

Treatment may include:

• Chiropractic care

• Soft tissue therapy

• Rehabilitation exercises

• Postural advice

• Movement and strengthening programmes

  
  

Our aim is not only to reduce pain, but also to help improve movement, function and long-term resilience.

If you would like to discuss whether we may be able to help, please contact our friendly team on 01483 562830 or book online through our website.

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