Spine · 21 October 2026

Low back pain: five key points and when the pain travels down the leg

Eight out of ten people will have low back pain at some point in their lives. Most improve within a few weeks, but there are cases where it is worth taking a careful look.

1. Movement is part of the treatment

Prolonged bed rest slows recovery. Walking and keeping up daily activity, within what the pain allows, helps the back recover sooner.

2. Most cases improve within a few weeks

Acute low back pain usually settles well on its own. If it has not improved after six weeks, or it keeps coming back, it needs to be investigated.

3. An MRI does not always explain the pain

Many people without any pain have disc herniations or wear on an MRI. Imaging helps, but the diagnosis comes from putting together what you describe, the examination and the tests.

4. Strength prevents relapses

Strengthening the abdominal, gluteal and back muscles is the best investment for your spine. A tailored exercise plan reduces relapses.

5. When the pain travels down the leg

When a nerve root in the lumbar spine is irritated or compressed, for example by a disc herniation, the pain can spread down the buttock and leg, sometimes to the foot. It usually comes with tingling, burning or loss of strength.

This is what we call radiculopathy, and sciatica is the best-known example. It is pain of nerve origin: it is diagnosed with a good examination and, in many cases, it can be treated without surgery.

Article by Dr Julio De la Morena Garzón, specialist in Sport and Exercise Medicine (medical registration no. 281903698). General information that does not replace a medical consultation.