1. Why does my lower back hurt when I sit?
Sitting increases pressure on the structures in your lower back — especially if you're slouched or sitting for long periods. Muscles can become stiff, discs are compressed, and joints can feel overloaded. It’s common for people to feel worse after prolonged sitting, especially without lumbar support or breaks to move.

2. Why does my lower back hurt when I walk?
Discomfort during walking often points to imbalances in how your hips and spine move together. Sometimes tight hip flexors or a stiff lower back can cause your body to compensate, leading to pain. In some cases, nerve irritation can also trigger symptoms in the lower back or legs while walking.

3. Why does my lower back hurt at night?
Night-time back pain can be related to the position you sleep in, the type of mattress you’re on, or how your spine decompresses after a long day. Some people find side-sleeping with a pillow between their knees helpful. If pain wakes you up at night regularly, it’s worth checking in with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

4. Can lower back pain be cured?
Most cases of lower back pain, especially acute ones, do resolve — often within days to weeks — especially when the body is supported with the right movement and posture habits. It’s important to stay as active as you can comfortably manage, rather than complete rest.

5. Is lower back pain normal?
It’s very common, but it’s not something you should just put up with. It’s your body’s way of telling you something needs attention — whether it’s posture, load, stress, or movement habits. That said, most episodes improve with the right approach.

6. How long does lower back pain last?
Acute lower back pain typically improves in a few days to a few weeks. If it lasts longer than 6–8 weeks, it may be moving into a more persistent phase. Gentle movement, stress management, and staying engaged in daily life usually help the recovery process.

7. What is the best treatment for lower back pain?
Staying active (within your limits), avoiding complete bed rest, and using heat or ice for comfort are all helpful early strategies. Some people find short walks, gentle stretching, or specific movements (like knee hugs or supported back extensions) helpful depending on what triggers their pain.

8. Can lower back pain cause leg pain?
Yes — especially if there’s irritation of a nerve in the lower back. This can cause symptoms like tingling, numbness, or pain down the leg (sciatica). But not all leg pain is nerve-related — sometimes tight or tense muscles can mimic similar sensations.

9. Why won’t my lower back pain go away?
Persistent pain can sometimes be linked to stress, fear of movement, or lack of movement variety — not just physical strain. If pain hangs around, it might help to explore how you're moving, sitting, sleeping, and managing stress. Getting clarity on the pattern can make a big difference.

10. Is lower back pain a sign of cancer?
Very rarely. Most lower back pain is mechanical — meaning it’s related to movement or posture. Red flags that might suggest something more serious include night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or pain that doesn’t change with position. If you're concerned, speak with a medical professional.

11. How should I sleep with lower back pain?
Side-sleeping with a pillow between your knees can help keep your spine in a more neutral position. Some people feel better on their back with a pillow under their knees. It’s about finding a position that feels most comfortable and lets your body relax.

12. Can lower back pain cause constipation?
Not directly — but sometimes the muscle tension or stress associated with lower back pain can affect your digestive system. Also, if you’re taking certain pain medications (like opioids), constipation is a common side effect. Staying hydrated, eating fibre-rich foods, and gentle movement may help.

13. Why does my lower back hurt in the morning?
Morning stiffness is common — often from being in one position overnight. Your discs absorb fluid while you sleep, which can make your spine feel more sensitive when you first get up. Gentle stretches, a warm shower, or light movement can help ease things out.

14. What causes lower back pain in females?
Lower back pain in women can be influenced by hormonal cycles, pelvic position, pregnancy, or conditions like endometriosis. It can also come from the same common causes as in men — such as postural habits, muscular imbalances, or strain from daily life.

15. Can stress cause lower back pain?
Yes — stress can cause muscles to tighten, breathing patterns to shift, and sleep to be disrupted — all of which affect how your back feels. Pain is influenced by both physical and emotional factors. A stressed system is often more sensitive to discomfort.

16. What should I do if my lower back locks up?
When your back “locks up,” it’s usually your body protecting itself from perceived overload or irritation. Try gentle movements like lying on your back and bringing your knees to your chest one at a time. Stay calm, breathe slowly, and avoid sudden twisting. If it doesn’t ease after a day or two, check in with a professional.

17. How do I know if my lower back pain is serious?
If your pain comes with symptoms like numbness in the groin area, loss of bowel or bladder control, or progressive leg weakness, seek urgent care. For most people, lower back pain is not serious and improves with time — but trust your gut, and get checked if something feels off.

18. What’s the difference between a disc bulge and general back pain?
A disc bulge usually involves pressure on surrounding tissues or nerves and can cause pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica). General back pain might feel more localised, achy, or stiff. However, many disc bulges show up on scans with no symptoms at all — so the full picture is more important than the scan alone.

19. Can lower back pain be related to my posture?
Yes — especially if you’re in one posture for hours at a time (e.g., slouched at a desk or standing with one hip out). The issue isn’t posture alone, but how long you stay in one position without moving. Frequent changes in position and gentle movement help more than striving for “perfect” posture.

20. Is it better to rest or move with lower back pain?
Generally, gentle movement is better than complete rest. Staying in bed for long periods can make stiffness and sensitivity worse. Even simple walking or light stretching (as tolerated) can help your body recover faster. The key is to listen to your body and stay within comfortable limits.