back pain

Understand your back pain.

Back pain can develop for many reasons and may affect how you sit, stand, bend, lift or move throughout the day. Explore common pain patterns, symptoms and conditions to better understand what may be contributing to your discomfort.

Man holding his lower back due to pain

Where does your back hurt?

Click or hover over an area to see related conditions.

Select an area

Choose a highlighted area to explore common back-pain patterns.

Related conditions will appear here.

These are examples of common conditions associated with each area. Back pain can have many other causes, and pain location alone cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Common back conditions

Explore some of the common causes of back pain

Herniated or Bulging Disc

Disc changes in the lower back that may contribute to localized pain or symptoms extending into the buttock or leg.

Facet Joint Pain

Pain related to the small joints at the back of the spine, which may cause localized stiffness or pain that is stronger on one side.

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing around the spinal canal or nerve pathways that may contribute to back or leg symptoms, particularly with standing or walking.

Lumbar Strain or Sprain

Irritation or injury involving the muscles and supporting soft tissues of the lower back, often associated with lifting, repetitive activity or sudden movement.

Lumbar Osteoarthritis / Spondylosis

Age-related changes affecting the joints and structures of the lower back that may contribute to pain, stiffness or reduced mobility.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Pain associated with the joint between the pelvis and lower spine, often experienced on one side of the lower back or around the buttock.

Other back concerns we see: sciatica · spondylolisthesis · degenerative disc-related pain · scoliosis-related pain · post-operative rehabilitation · general back pain

Back pain can feel different for everyone

You might be experiencing

Aching or soreness in the lower back

Muscle tightness or spasm

Pain after sitting or standing for prolonged periods

Pain travelling into buttock or leg

Pain with bending, lifting or twisting

Stiffness or limited movement

Physiotherapist providing hands-on treatment for a patient’s lower back

Not sure what’s causing your back pain?