Is your lower back pain more than just a passing ache?
You might be wondering when it’s time to stop waiting it out and start seeking help. The truth is, the earlier you act, the sooner you can get back to moving comfortably—and safely.
>>>If you're feeling stuck, our experienced team is ready to guide you. Schedule your appointment today!
Understanding the Scope of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain affects nearly 80% of adults at some point in their lives. For some, it’s a mild twinge after lifting a heavy object. For others, it becomes chronic and debilitating—impacting work, sleep, and daily activities.
The causes can vary widely. It may stem from poor posture or prolonged sitting, repetitive strain, a herniated disc, sciatica, or even stress-related tension. In older adults, degenerative conditions like arthritis or spinal stenosis are common contributors.
Because back pain has so many possible sources, knowing when to act is key.
When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough
Many people try stretching, rest, or over-the-counter pain relievers at the first sign of discomfort. While these can provide temporary relief, they often don’t resolve the underlying cause. When pain lingers beyond a week, worsens with movement, or begins radiating into your hips or legs, it's time to consider physical therapy.
You should seek professional care if:
Your pain lasts more than 7–10 days
You experience recurring stiffness, especially in the morning
There's numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs
Your walking pattern, posture, or sleep is disrupted
You’re relying more on medication than movement for relief
Therapy helps you break that cycle—restoring strength, improving mobility, and preventing future episodes.
How We Treat Lower Back Pain at Our Clinics
At our Fairfax and Chantilly locations, our physical therapists take a personalized approach to lower back care. Every plan begins with a full evaluation of your posture, movement patterns, flexibility, and strength.
From there, we create a treatment path that may include:
Manual Therapy to release tension and restore mobility
Corrective exercises to address imbalances and support alignment
Core stabilization techniques to protect your spine
Education on safe lifting, posture, and daily movement habits
Our goal is not just to manage symptoms—it’s to give you lasting tools for pain-free movement.
Recognizing Different Types of Back Pain
Lower back pain doesn’t always look—or feel—the same. Some patients describe it as sharp or stabbing, while others feel a dull, constant ache. Pain that flares after sitting too long often points to disc or postural issues, while discomfort that builds with walking may be linked to joint compression or alignment concerns.
We adjust every treatment based on how your pain behaves, what triggers it, and how it affects your day-to-day life. For example, someone with pain from prolonged sitting will need a very different approach than someone with pain during yard work or sports.
When to Act Fast
While most lower back pain can be addressed conservatively, there are a few red flags that signal the need for urgent care. If your pain is accompanied by numbness in the groin, sudden leg weakness, or a loss of bladder or bowel control, call your physician immediately.
These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.
What Our Patients Often Ask
Many people wonder, “Shouldn’t I wait and see if it goes away?” While it’s okay to monitor mild pain for a few days, ignoring symptoms for too long can lead to compensation patterns, chronic stiffness, and further injury. The sooner you begin a guided therapy program, the faster you can heal—and the less likely your pain is to return.
Another common question is whether they’ll need imaging first. In many cases, you don’t. We can assess movement patterns and muscle function with a hands-on evaluation that tells us exactly where to begin.
What You Can Do Right Now
There are simple steps you can take today to support your back health:
Stay mobile—gentle walking helps circulation and healing
Avoid long periods of sitting or standing without breaks
Focus on good posture with a supported lower back
Use heat or cold strategically to reduce pain and stiffness
Contact a physical therapist if your pain has persisted more than a week
Let’s Help You Move Better—Without Pain
You don’t need to live with chronic back pain or let it hold you back. Our team is here to help you move forward—safely, effectively, and with confidence.
Call us at (703) 844-8599 (Fairfax) or (703) 844-0690 (Chantilly), orbook your appointment online.