Skip to main content
Lower back pain

Symptoms and Red Flags of Lower Back Pain: When to See a Physiotherapist

Lower Back Pain: Know the Signs

Lower back pain (LBP) affects athletes, office workers, and weekend warriors in Rydalmere, Parramatta, and surrounding suburbs. Most LBP improves with physiotherapy, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments — but sometimes, it can indicate something more serious.

Knowing the difference between common discomfort and red flags helps you seek the right care at the right time.


Common Symptoms of Lower Back Pain

  • Dull or sharp ache in the lower back

  • Stiffness when bending or standing for long periods

  • Muscle spasms or tightness

  • Radiating pain into the buttocks, thighs, or legs (sciatica)

  • Difficulty moving or performing daily activities

These symptoms are common after training, lifting, or long periods at a desk, and are usually manageable with physiotherapy.


Red Flags: When to Seek Urgent Care

Certain symptoms may indicate a more serious issue. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Numbness or tingling in the groin, buttocks, or legs

  • Weakness in the legs or difficulty walking

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

  • Severe, unrelenting pain that doesn’t improve with rest

  • History of trauma, unexplained weight loss, or fever

Red flags are rare, but recognising them early is crucial to prevent complications.


When to See a Physiotherapist

You should book a consultation with our Rydalmere physiotherapy team if:

  • Pain persists for more than a few days or recurs frequently

  • Daily activities, sport, or training are limited

  • You want to prevent chronic issues or re-injury

Our physiotherapists will assess:

  • Movement patterns and posture

  • Muscle strength and flexibility

  • Core stability and load management

From there, we create a tailored treatment plan, including manual therapy, exercises, posture education, and gym-based strengthening.


Preventing Future Pain

Even if your back pain is mild, early physiotherapy can:

  • Reduce the risk of chronic lower back issues

  • Improve strength, flexibility, and posture

  • Help athletes return safely to sport

  • Minimise downtime for office workers or weekend warriors


Supporting Rydalmere & Parramatta Residents

Our clinic serves patients from Rydalmere, Parramatta, Dundas, Ermington, Silverwater, Auburn, and West Ryde. Whether you’re a teen athlete, office professional, or active adult, we provide evidence-based care for lasting relief.


Take Action Before Pain Worsens

Don’t wait for discomfort to become a bigger problem. Book an appointment with our Rydalmere physiotherapists today to get a personalised assessment and start your recovery journey.

👉 Book your lower back pain consultation now.

Leave a Reply