When back pain needs a doctor, and when it needs a physio

Most back pain gets better on its own within six weeks. That is not a reason to ignore it, but it is a reason not to panic.

See a GP today if

You have numbness around your bottom or between your legs, trouble controlling your bladder or bowels, weakness in both legs, or back pain with a fever or unexplained weight loss. These are rare and they matter.

See a physiotherapist this week if

The pain has lasted more than two weeks, it travels down one leg, it stops you sleeping, or it keeps coming back. A physiotherapist will find the cause and give you a plan.

Look after it at home if

It started after lifting or an awkward movement, it is getting a little better each day, and you can still walk and sleep. Keep moving, use heat, avoid bed rest and check in with us if it has not improved in two weeks.