Illustrative AI-generated imageBack pain & sciatica
Back pain can affect movement, sleep and everyday tasks. Sciatica describes pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down a leg, sometimes with tingling, numbness or weakness.
- Symptoms people may notice
- Experiences vary: aching or stiffness, pain with particular activities, or leg symptoms. These signs have different possible causes and cannot be diagnosed from a webpage.
- Assessment and possible rehabilitation
- A physiotherapist may ask about the onset, symptoms, health history and daily activities, then assess relevant movement, strength, sensation and function. Serious or changing symptoms need medical assessment. Depending on assessment, care may include information, supported self-management, gradual return to normal activity and an individually tailored exercise plan. NICE recommends considering manual therapy only as part of a package that includes exercise.
- General home-care guidance
- Where it feels safe, avoid prolonged bed rest and change positions regularly. Keep activity within tolerable limits; seek personal advice if movement causes a marked or lasting increase in symptoms.
- When to seek assessment
- Arrange an assessment if pain is persistent, recurring, affecting sleep or daily function, or accompanied by new leg symptoms. New bladder or bowel changes, saddle-area numbness, or rapidly worsening weakness require emergency assessment.
