Back pain

Back pain can make it difficult to get up, work, exercise or sleep. At FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen, we discuss what is holding you back and what kind of support is best suited to your situation.

What can back pain feel like?

Back pain can start suddenly or develop gradually. Sometimes the back feels stiff, and sometimes the pain radiates to the buttock or a leg. Many common cases of lower back pain subside over the course of a few weeks. Pain does not necessarily mean that your back is damaged.

If you have ordinary lower back pain, keep moving as much as possible and gradually build up to manageable activities. If this doesn’t help enough, or if you’re worried, seek advice. See below for information on when you should call a doctor straight away.

A cyclist is holding his lower back whilst standing next to his road bike.

How do back pain occur?

Often, no single clear physical cause can be identified. This is known as non-specific lower back pain. A cause you have identified yourself, such as lifting, is not the same as a medical diagnosis. Sometimes, however, there is a specific condition that requires investigation and targeted treatment.

Manual treatment of the back at FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen

What will we discuss during your consultation?

  • How your symptoms began and how they have changed
  • Which everyday activities are difficult
  • Your tax liability at work and when playing sport
  • Your sleep, recovery and any stress-related symptoms
  • Your expectations and goals

Examples of specific causes

  • A herniated disc causing nerve irritation
  • A collapsed or fractured vertebra
  • An inflammation or infection requiring medical assessment

During your first appointment, we will discuss your symptoms and assess your range of motion. Together, we will decide whether physiotherapy is appropriate and what goals are achievable. We will regularly review your progress.

Making an appointment

Would you like help with getting back into exercise, or are your back problems returning? Please contact FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen. We’ll discuss your situation and, if necessary, advise you to see your GP for an assessment.

Call your GP or GP out-of-hours service straight away if you are unable to pass urine, lose control of your bladder or bowels, experience a loss of sensation around your genitals or anus, or suddenly feel weakness in one leg. You should also call immediately if you experience sudden, severe back or abdominal pain, or back pain accompanied by sweating, dizziness and a feeling of faintness.

A physiotherapist is helping a client with an exercise on a mat at FRISKFYSIO.

APPOINTMENTS AND CONTACT DETAILS

An appointment at FRISKFYSIO Amstelveen

Do you have any questions about treatment for back pain, or would you like to book an appointment? Please get in touch with our team or use the online booking tool.

Make an appointment

Call 085 5000 333

Would you prefer to send a message?

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR TREATMENT

Frequently asked questions
about back pain

Click on a question to read the answer.

Do I always need physiotherapy for back pain?

No. Back pain that has only recently started often goes away on its own. If everyday activities remain difficult or you are unable to gradually increase your physical activity, professional guidance may be helpful. You should also discuss any persistent symptoms with your GP.

What does a physiotherapist look for when assessing back pain?

We will discuss the nature of your pain and which activities you find difficult. We will assess your range of movement and how you function. Your goals – such as returning to work or taking up sport again – will form the basis for any treatment plan.

Can I keep exercising if I have lower back pain?

In the case of ordinary lower back pain, it is usually advisable to keep moving. Choose activities that are manageable and build up gradually. Prolonged bed rest does not usually help. If you experience warning signs, you should seek medical advice first.

Does radiating pain mean I have a slipped disc?

Appearance alone does not confirm a herniated disc. A herniated disc can cause pain in the buttock or leg, sometimes accompanied by altered sensation or loss of strength. An examination is needed to assess the cause of your symptoms.

Which exercises are suitable for my back problems?

There is no single exercise programme that is best for everyone. We tailor movements and exercises to your symptoms, abilities and goals. You will be given guidance on how to perform the exercises and how to gradually increase the intensity.

When should I call a doctor straight away if I have back pain?

Call your GP or GP out-of-hours service immediately if you experience back pain accompanied by an inability to pass urine, loss of control over urination or bowel movements, loss of sensation around the genitals or anus, or a sudden loss of strength in one leg.

What if my back pain keeps coming back?

Together, we’ll look at your activity patterns, your workload and what helps you to stay active. The aim is to help you manage your symptoms more effectively and gradually build up your activities. Recurring symptoms do not necessarily mean that there is any damage.

What exercises will I be given to do at home?

You will receive your home exercise programme via our own FRISK App. There you can view your own exercise programme. Your physiotherapist will discuss with you which exercises you will be doing and how to perform them.

What else can I do with the FRISK App?

As well as your own exercise programme, you can use the FRISK App book, change or cancel appointments. You’ll also find information about our team, our areas of specialism, information on medical conditions, the latest news, our online shop and contact details.