Understanding the area
About lower back
The lower back, or lumbar spine, carries load and works with the hips, pelvis and trunk muscles during most daily movements.
Back symptoms are common and can vary widely. Assessment helps connect your symptoms with your movement, activities and goals.
Lumbar spine anatomy
This part of the guide introduces important considerations related to lumbar spine anatomy. Your symptoms, health history and activity goals are individual, so a physiotherapist may assess the area and explain which information is relevant to you.
Movement and load
This part of the guide introduces important considerations related to movement and load. Your symptoms, health history and activity goals are individual, so a physiotherapist may assess the area and explain which information is relevant to you.
Strength and mobility
This part of the guide introduces important considerations related to strength and mobility. Your symptoms, health history and activity goals are individual, so a physiotherapist may assess the area and explain which information is relevant to you.
Returning to daily activity
This part of the guide introduces important considerations related to returning to daily activity. Your symptoms, health history and activity goals are individual, so a physiotherapist may assess the area and explain which information is relevant to you.
When an assessment may help
If symptoms are limiting movement, work, sleep, exercise or the activities you value, a physiotherapist can assess your individual situation and discuss appropriate next steps.
Important: This page provides general education and does not diagnose a condition or replace medical care. Seek urgent medical attention for a serious injury, severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, new weakness or numbness, or any other medical emergency.
