That Nagging Lower Back Pain Might Not Be Your Back!
- Kim Noyce
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek treatment and for many it can be life-altering. Simple daily activities like sitting, walking, exercising, work related movements or even sleeping can be become uncomfortable or just exhausting. When pain
lingers, it doesn't just affect the body - it can impact mood, confidence and overall wellbeing.
As a Clinical Massage Therapist, I often see clients who feel frustrated and unsure why their lower back pain keeps returning, even after rest o stretching. The answers is often more complete than a 'tight back'.
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain rarely exists in isolation. Some of the most common contributing factors include:
Prolonged sitting or desk-based work
Poor posture/held posture or repetitive movement patterns
Muscle tension and overuse
Previous injuries
Core weakness or reduced stability
Physical and emotional stress
In many cases, the pain you feel in your lower back may not actually be coming from the lower back itself.
The Overlooked Role of the Hips
One of the most common and frequently missed contributors to lower back pain is hip dysfunction.
The hips and lower back are designed to work together. When the hips become tight, weak or restricted, the lower back often compensates by moving more than it should. Over time, this extra strain can lead to muscle guarding, stiffness and pain.
Common hip-related contributors include
Tight hip flexors pulling the pelvis forward
Underactive or weak glute muscles
Limited hip rotation affecting walking or running mechanics
Old injuries that have altered movement patterns
This is especially relevant for active individuals, either through work or leisure. Those pending or post hip or knee replacement surgery. Which is why a Sports Massage and a targeted assessment can be so effective when addressing lower back pain.
How Clinical and Sports Massage Can Help
Using advanced massage techniques, clinical and sports massage can support the body by:
Reducing muscle tension and protective guarding
Improving circulation and tissue health
Addressing compensations in the hips, glutes and lower back
Supporting better movement patterns and recovery
Helping calm the nervous system which plays a key role in persistent pain
As a Clinical Massage Therapist who offers Sports and Remedial Massage in Worthing, my approach is always tailored to the individual - whether you're dealing with ongoing discomfort, recovering from injury/surgery or simply trying to move more freely and confidently.
Massage therapy works best as part of a wider approach that includes movement, awareness and self-care.
Gentle Self-Help and Educational Resources
If you're experiencing lower back pain, these trusted resources can help you better understand your body and support:
Cleveland Clinic - Oh, My Aching Back or is it My Hips? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/oh-my-aching-back-or-is-it-my-hip
NHS - Lower Back Pain.
Active Wellbeing Centre - Worthing GP referral and Rehabilitation Centre
NHS - Hip Pain
These resources offer clear explanations and movement-based education to complement hands-on treatment. If appropriate and as part of a treatment plan physiotherapy exercises can be provided.
NB If pain is severe, worsening or accompanied by numbness, weakness or changes in bladder or bowel function, seek medical advice promptly.
You Don't Have to Live With Ongoing Pain
Lower back pain can feel overwhelming but understanding its root
causes - including the vital role of the hips - can be the first step toward meaningful relief. With right combination of assessment, sports massage and supportive care, its possible to break the cycle and move with ease again.
If you're looking for Sports Massage in Worthing delivered by Clinical Massage Therapist, I'm always happy to discuss whether treatment might be right for you.
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