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Back Pain: What Needs a Scan and What Needs Physiotherapy

Most back pain settles without imaging. Here are the exceptions, and the rehab approach that prevents recurrence.

4 August 2026 5 min read

Red Flags

Weakness or numbness in a leg, loss of bladder or bowel control, pain after a fall, unexplained weight loss, fever, or pain that is worse at night deserve prompt review and imaging.

Why Scans Often Mislead

Disc bulges appear on MRI in a large share of pain-free adults. Treating the picture rather than the person leads to unnecessary surgery. Clinical examination guides management.

What Actually Works

Staying active, graded core and hip strengthening, posture and workstation correction, and manual therapy for symptom relief. Our physiotherapists build a home programme and review progress at set intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I rest completely?

No. Beyond a day or two, prolonged bed rest slows recovery. Gentle activity is better.

Speak to a Specialist

Our consultants are available across specialities at our HSR Layout campus.

080 6792 7777 WhatsApp