Lower back pain: causes, treatment, and recovery tips

Lower back pain is common and affects thousands of people in the Netherlands every year. Symptoms range from mild stiffness to severe pain that restricts movement. Especially in a city like Rotterdam, where many people have sedentary jobs or perform physically demanding tasks, we regularly see these complaints in our practice. Fortunately, back pain is usually easily treated with physiotherapy. In this blog post, we explain the possible causes, how we approach treatment at Fysiotherapie Iburg, and what you can do to prevent lower back pain.
Blog published on July 23, 2025

What causes lower back pain?

Lower back pain, also called lumbago, can occur suddenly or develop gradually. The causes can vary, but the most common are:

  • Muscle or ligament strain: often caused by incorrect movements, heavy lifting or sitting in the same position for long periods of time.

  • Poor posture or ergonomics: for example in the office or in the car, which leads to constant pressure on the lower back.

  • Hernia or sciatica: where a nerve becomes irritated or pinched, often radiating to the leg.

  • Wear and tear (arthrosis) or degenerative changes to the spine.

  • Stress-related tension: Mental stress can cause physical complaints in the lower back.

In about 90% of the cases we speak of nonspecific low back pain, which means that no specific medical cause is found. However, these symptoms can be serious and have a major impact on your daily life.

What symptoms are associated with lower back pain?

The symptoms of lower back pain can vary widely. Do you recognize one or more of the signs below? Then it's wise to make an appointment with a physiotherapist in Rotterdam.

  • Nagging or stabbing pain in the lower back

  • Stiffness when standing up or after sitting for a long time

  • Limited movement, especially when bending or turning

  • Pain radiating to the buttock or leg (sciatica-like complaints)

  • Muscle cramps or decreased strength in the back

  • Tingling or numbness in the leg due to nerve compression

Long-term back pain can lead to avoidance behavior or fear of movement. It's important to identify this early and treat it effectively.

Treatment of lower back pain at Physiotherapy Iburg Rotterdam

Bee Physiotherapy Iburg We work with a combination of scientifically proven treatment methods and a personalized approach. Every patient is unique, so we always tailor our treatments to your specific situation and goals.

Our treatment approach for lower back pain often consists of:

  • Physical analysis and posture examination to find out the cause

  • Mobilization techniques and manual therapy to improve the mobility of the spine

  • Targeted exercise therapy to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles (core stability)

  • Breathing and relaxation exercises for stress-related back pain

  • Dry needling or massage for increased muscle tension or trigger points

  • Advice and coaching about posture, movement and prevention of recurring complaints

You do not have to wait for a referral from your GP: at Physiotherapy Iburg you can get a referral straight away make an appointment.

What can you do yourself about lower back pain?

In addition to professional guidance, there is also much you can do yourself to promote your recovery and prevent back pain:

  • Keep moving. Prolonged rest is usually not beneficial for back problems.

  • Change positions regularly if you sit or stand a lot.

  • Provide a good workplace with ergonomic support.

  • Do exercises to strengthen your core, such as light abdominal exercises or yoga.

  • Learn to lift and bend properly. Use your legs, not your back.

  • Provide relaxation in times of stress or busyness, because tension can manifest itself physically in the lower back.

Would you like personalized advice or a personal exercise schedule? Our physiotherapists in Rotterdam we are happy to help you.

Why choose Physiotherapy Iburg for back pain?

Physiotherapy Iburg is the leading specialist in treating back pain in Rotterdam. Our practice is accessible, easily accessible, and has short waiting times. We combine expertise with personalized attention and ensure you can move pain-free again as quickly as possible.

Whether your back pain is acute or has been present for a long time – you are in good hands with us.

Team Physiotherapy Iburg

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