Lower back pain is very common and usually not caused by serious damage. Long hours of studying, sitting at a laptop, stress, poor sleep or a sudden increase in sport can all play a role. Most back pain gets better within a few weeks.
Common causes
- Long periods of sitting without changing position, for example while studying.
- Lifting, moving house, or a sudden increase in training.
- Stress, poor sleep and little physical activity, which make pain more likely to persist.
What you can do yourself
- Keep moving: walking and normal daily activities help recovery more than bed rest.
- Change position often while studying, and take short breaks to stand up and walk.
- Stay active in sport where possible, at a level that feels manageable.
- Heat can help to relax your muscles.
How we can help
We first check with you whether our student learning clinic suits your complaint, or whether a regular physiotherapist is a better fit. If our clinic is right for you, a student assesses your complaint under supervision. Within a maximum of three appointments, you receive:
- A clear explanation of your back pain, so you know what is safe to do.
- Exercises to move with more confidence and build strength.
- Advice on studying, sitting, sport and sleep, so the pain is less likely to return.
Need longer treatment? We help you find a regular physiotherapist.
When to see a doctor first
Contact a GP straight away if you have numbness around the genitals or buttocks, problems with urinating or bowel movements, increasing weakness in a leg, fever, or pain after a fall or accident.
Read more in our frequently asked questions, or see other injuries and conditions we treat.
Back pain from studying or sport? Book an appointment for €5.
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