10 Surprising Causes of Back Pain & How Physiotherapy at HealthMax Clinic Leicester Can Help

Back pain affects 8 out of 10 people at some point in their life — and it’s one of the most common reasons for GP visits and sick days in the UK. But did you know that many cases of back pain aren’t caused by injury or accidents?

At HealthMax Clinic in Leicester, our expert physiotherapists help clients uncover the root causes of their pain — and create personalised treatment plans that go beyond painkillers.

Here are 10 surprising causes of back pain you may not have considered:

  1. Poor Desk Posture
    Working long hours hunched over a laptop? Slouching is one of the top hidden triggers of chronic lower and upper back pain.

  2. Weak Core Muscles
    Your abdominal and pelvic muscles help support your spine. If they’re weak, your back overcompensates, leading to strain and stiffness.

  3. Tight Hamstrings
    Limited flexibility in your legs can pull on your lower back — especially if you sit all day.

  4. Stress & Anxiety
    Mental tension can cause muscle tightness, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

  5. Bad Mattress or Pillow
    Sleeping on an unsupportive bed can cause back misalignment overnight, leading to pain in the morning.

  6. Incorrect Exercise Technique
    Lifting weights with poor form? You could be straining your spine and surrounding muscles.

  7. Foot Imbalances
    Issues like flat feet or leg length differences can affect posture and cause compensatory back pain.

  8. Old Injuries That Never Healed
    Past sports injuries, even mild ones, can create scar tissue or movement imbalances that resurface later.

  9. Driving for Long Periods
    Sitting in the same position for hours, especially with poor lumbar support, is a major culprit.

  10. Sedentary Lifestyle
    Lack of movement weakens muscles, stiffens joints, and decreases circulation — all contributors to chronic back discomfort.

🩺 How Physiotherapy at HealthMax Clinic Leicester Can Help

Our Leicester-based physiotherapists don’t just treat symptoms — we target the root cause using evidence-based, hands-on therapies including:

  • Postural correction and movement assessment

  • Manual therapy and deep tissue release

  • Dry needling and electrotherapy (if appropriate)

  • Strength & mobility programs

  • Ergonomic and lifestyle advice

We also combine treatments with massage therapy and personalized exercise plans to keep you pain-free long-term.

✅ Who Should Book a Physiotherapy Assessment?

  • Office workers with back or neck tension

  • Athletes or gym-goers recovering from strain

  • Drivers or manual laborers with stiffness

  • Anyone with recurring back, hip, or shoulder pain

📍 Book Your Session at HealthMax Clinic, Leicester

Whether you’re dealing with recent discomfort or chronic pain, our friendly and qualified physios are here to help. Don’t wait for things to get worse — get expert treatment tailored to your needs.