17 Oct Back Pain Causes and Treatment Explained
Back Pain Causes and Treatment Explained
Back pain affects millions of people every year and is one of the most common reasons for visiting an osteopath. Whether your discomfort is a dull ache or a sharp, persistent pain, understanding the cause is the first step to finding lasting relief.
At Brookmans Park Osteopaths, our Hertfordshire clinic helps patients manage and overcome back pain through gentle, evidence-based osteopathic treatment.
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain can develop for a wide variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:
1. Poor Posture
Spending long hours sitting at a desk or looking down at your phone can cause muscle strain and spinal misalignment. Over time, this creates stiffness and discomfort in the lower back.
2. Muscle Strain or Injury
Sudden movements, lifting heavy objects, or sporting injuries can all strain muscles and ligaments in the back, leading to pain and inflammation.
3. Joint or Disc Problems
Conditions such as arthritis, degenerative disc disease, or sciatica can cause nerve irritation and chronic pain.
4. Stress and Tension
Emotional stress often leads to physical tension, particularly in the shoulders and lower back. This tension can build up and limit flexibility.
How Osteopathy Helps with Back Pain
Osteopathy focuses on how your body’s structure affects its function. Our osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques to improve movement, reduce tension, and encourage your body’s natural healing processes.
Your treatment may include:
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Soft tissue massage to release tight muscles
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Gentle joint mobilisation to restore flexibility
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Postural advice and corrective exercises
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Ergonomic guidance for home and work
Each treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs — addressing not just the symptoms, but the underlying cause of your back pain.
When to See an Osteopath
If you’ve been experiencing back pain for more than a few days, or if it keeps returning, it’s worth seeking professional advice.
At our Brookmans Park clinic in Hertfordshire, we assess your full medical history, posture, and lifestyle to create a treatment plan that suits you.
You should book an appointment if you notice:
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Persistent lower back or neck pain
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Pain radiating down your legs (sciatica)
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Stiffness or restricted movement
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Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
Preventing Back Pain
While osteopathic care can help manage pain, prevention is just as important.
Here are a few practical tips:
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Maintain a good posture when sitting and standing
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Take regular breaks from your desk
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Lift correctly, bending at the knees rather than the waist
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Stay active — regular movement keeps muscles strong and flexible
Why Choose Brookmans Park Osteopaths?
Based in Hertfordshire, our osteopaths have years of experience helping people from Potters Bar, Hatfield, and Welham Green find lasting relief from back pain.
We take time to listen, explain, and ensure you understand every stage of your care.
Our approach is gentle, patient-centred, and focused on helping you move freely again.
Book an Appointment Today
If you’re struggling with back pain and want a natural, effective solution, contact Brookmans Park Osteopaths today.
Call us on 01707 655514 or
👉 Book Online to start your journey towards a pain-free life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most common cause of back pain?
Poor posture and muscle strain are the most frequent causes, particularly for those who sit or stand for long periods.
2. Can osteopathy help with chronic back pain?
Yes. Osteopathic treatment can improve mobility, reduce inflammation and help manage chronic back pain safely and effectively.
3. How many treatments will I need?
This depends on your individual condition. Many people notice improvement after just a few sessions, but your osteopath will discuss this with you during your consultation.