Types of Back Pain and Causes – Dr. Riaz Ahmed | NBR Clinic DHA Lahore
Back pain is one of the most common health problems affecting people of all ages, and it can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits daily activities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 60–70% of adults will experience some form of back pain during their lifetime. Understanding the types of back pain and causes is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term relief. If you are based in Lahore, Dr. Riaz Ahmed, a leading physiotherapy consultant at NBR Clinic, offers expert guidance and personalized treatment plans for patients suffering from various forms of back pain.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain can affect the upper, middle, or lower spine, and its severity depends on lifestyle, age, posture, injuries, or medical conditions. While some cases resolve within weeks, others become chronic and require professional care. At NBR Clinic DHA Lahore, Dr. Riaz Ahmed emphasizes that back pain should never be ignored, as early diagnosis prevents future complications.
Types of Back Pain
1. Acute Back Pain
Acute back pain usually comes suddenly and lasts for a short period, often less than six weeks. It may be caused by lifting something heavy, sudden movements, or minor injuries. Though temporary, this type can be extremely uncomfortable. Proper rest, ice therapy, and guided physiotherapy exercises from specialists like Dr. Riaz Ahmed at NBR Clinic can provide quick relief.
2. Chronic Back Pain
Chronic back pain is more serious as it lasts for 12 weeks or longer, even after initial treatment. This type is often linked with underlying issues such as arthritis, disc problems, or degenerative spine conditions. At NBR Clinic Lahore, Dr. Riaz Ahmed focuses on long-term management through manual therapy, stretching programs, and lifestyle changes, helping patients regain mobility and improve quality of life.
3. Nonspecific Back Pain
Sometimes, back pain has no identifiable cause and is classified as nonspecific back pain. This type is common among office workers or people with sedentary lifestyles. Poor posture, long sitting hours, and stress can all contribute. Treatment generally includes posture correction, strengthening exercises, and ergonomic guidance—areas in which NBR Clinic specializes.
4. Radicular Pain
Radicular pain occurs when nerves in the spine are compressed, leading to sharp, shooting pain that radiates to the legs or arms. A common example is sciatica, where the sciatic nerve is pinched. Patients often feel tingling, numbness, or burning sensations. Dr. Riaz Ahmed provides targeted therapies for such conditions, including manual therapy and advanced physiotherapy techniques to reduce nerve pressure.
5. Muscle or Ligament Strain
Among the most frequent causes of back pain is muscle or ligament strain. This occurs due to overuse, poor lifting technique, or sudden awkward movements. Symptoms include stiffness, soreness, and limited flexibility. At NBR Clinic Lahore, treatment involves guided stretching, massage therapy, and strengthening exercises that restore spinal stability.
Causes of Back Pain
The causes of back pain vary widely, but some of the most common include:
- Herniated Discs: When a spinal disc slips out of place and presses on a nerve.
- Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal causing nerve compression.
- Arthritis: Degeneration of joints leading to stiffness and inflammation.
- Poor Posture: Long sitting hours in front of computers without proper ergonomics.
- Obesity: Extra body weight increasing pressure on the lower back.
- Stress and Lack of Exercise: Weak muscles and tension that trigger back pain.
Dr. Riaz Ahmed highlights that early detection and correct treatment at NBR Clinic can prevent these causes from developing into chronic pain.
How NBR Clinic Helps in Back Pain Relief
Located near DHA Lahore, NBR Clinic is equipped with modern facilities and advanced physiotherapy equipment. Patients receive one-on-one sessions, customized treatment plans, and follow-ups for effective healing. The clinic focuses on:
- Manual Therapy for immediate pain relief
- Exercise-based Physiotherapy to strengthen the spine
- Posture Training & Ergonomics for long-term prevention
- Non-surgical Pain Management instead of heavy reliance on medications
This patient-centered approach ensures holistic recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Riaz Ahmed?
With years of expertise in physiotherapy and pain management, Dr. Riaz Ahmed is recognized as one of the most trusted specialists in Lahore. His focus on evidence-based, non-invasive treatment helps patients recover faster without the risks of surgery. Patients at NBR Clinic consistently share success stories of improved mobility, reduced pain, and long-lasting recovery under his guidance.
Prevention of Back Pain
Prevention is just as important as treatment. Dr. Riaz Ahmed recommends maintaining a healthy weight, using correct posture while sitting or lifting, taking regular breaks from prolonged sitting, and doing strengthening and flexibility exercises daily. Such lifestyle changes significantly reduce the risk of recurring back pain.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of back pain and causes is essential for anyone experiencing discomfort in the spine. Whether it is acute pain from sudden injury, chronic pain from long-term conditions, or nerve-related pain like sciatica, consulting an expert is the safest option. At NBR Clinic DHA Lahore, Dr. Riaz Ahmed offers specialized care, combining physiotherapy, manual therapy, and preventive guidance for effective and lasting relief. If you are struggling with back pain, book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free life.
FAQs – Types of Back Pain and Causes
Q1. Which doctor is best for back pain treatment in Lahore?
👉 For patients seeking specialized care, Dr. Riaz Ahmed at NBR Clinic DHA Lahore is one of the best doctors for back pain treatment in Lahore. He provides non-surgical physiotherapy, manual therapy, and personalized exercise programs for long-term relief.
Q2. Can physiotherapy cure chronic back pain?
👉 Yes, physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for chronic back pain. With guided exercises, posture correction, and manual therapy, patients can reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and prevent recurrence. At NBR Clinic, Dr. Riaz Ahmed tailors each plan according to patient needs.
Q3. What are the main causes of lower back pain?
👉 The most common causes of lower back pain include herniated discs, muscle or ligament strain, spinal stenosis, poor posture, obesity, and stress. Identifying the root cause is essential, and at NBR Clinic DHA Lahore, professional evaluation ensures targeted treatment.
Q4. Is back pain always related to the spine?
👉 Not always. While many cases of back pain are related to spinal issues, it can also result from muscle strain, ligament injury, poor ergonomics, or even lifestyle factors like prolonged sitting. That’s why expert assessment at NBR Clinic is important.
Q5. How long does it take to recover from acute back pain?
👉 Most cases of acute back pain improve within 2–6 weeks with rest, proper exercises, and guided care. However, untreated pain can develop into chronic back pain, so consulting a specialist like Dr. Riaz Ahmed is highly recommended.
Q6. Can lifestyle changes help prevent back pain?
👉 Absolutely. Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing correct posture, regular stretching, and avoiding heavy lifting can significantly reduce the risk of back pain. At NBR Clinic, patients receive full lifestyle modification guidance to prevent recurrence.
Q7. What type of back pain is sciatica?
👉 Sciatica is a type of radicular pain, caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. Symptoms include sharp pain radiating from the lower back to the legs, tingling, or numbness. Dr. Riaz Ahmed at NBR Clinic Lahore specializes in sciatica management through physiotherapy and manual therapy.



