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Back pain can have several causes, and the reason is not always clear. A strain is one possibility; other conditions can also cause it. The symptoms below need medical attention. For everyday back pain, NHS advice favors staying active over prolonged bed rest.
Sources: NHS back pain guidance
When to get medical help
Get emergency help now
With back pain, seek emergency care for symptoms in both legs such as pain, tingling, weakness or numbness; loss of feeling around the genitals or anus; bladder or bowel changes; new sexual-function changes; chest pain; or pain after a serious accident.
Sources: NHS back pain guidance
Get urgent or routine medical advice
Seek urgent care for fever, feeling unwell, sudden severe pain or rapid worsening. Arrange an appointment for persistent pain, disrupted daily activities, unexplained weight loss, swelling, night pain, or other concerns.
Sources: NHS back pain guidance
Use your local emergency service when emergency care is needed. These examples are not a complete symptom checklist.
1. Does pain when sitting mean a slipped disc?
No single sitting pattern confirms a diagnosis. Strains, disc problems, and other conditions can cause back pain. A clinician can assess the symptoms and advise what is appropriate for you.
Sources: NHS back pain guidance
2. How should I check my chair and desk?
Review lower-back support and keep your screen and keyboard centered to avoid twisting. Look at where you actually work: a dining chair, car seat, and office chair are different setups. Note which one you were using when symptoms appeared, and bring that detail to a workstation review or healthcare appointment.
Sources: HSE workstation guidance
3. What should I note before an appointment?
Describe when the pain began and whether you notice it during sitting, standing up, or another activity. Mention whether it spreads elsewhere and how it affects normal tasks or sleep. If symptoms need urgent attention, seek care immediately; collecting a history should never hold that up. A short description in your own words is enough to start the conversation.
4. Could a movement app fit into my workday?
Once you know which activities are appropriate, an app like Unknot can help organize a routine. Its body-area choices, illustrated steps, and timer put the session in one place. Optional reminders and local session history support the planning side. Unknot is coming to iPhone and Android and does not diagnose or treat the cause of back pain.
Decide what you need today
Use the medical-help guidance to decide whether to seek care. If you are reviewing an everyday movement habit, choose an appropriate activity and a time that fits your day. An app can organize that plan; it cannot replace an assessment of persistent or concerning back pain.
Questions before you start
Should I rest or keep moving with lower back pain?
The NHS recommends staying active and avoiding long periods in bed. Stop an exercise if it worsens your pain and seek medical advice.
Sources: NHS back pain guidance
Can Unknot choose a treatment for my back pain?
No. Unknot provides general wellness routines and session tracking. A clinician can help you decide which activities are suitable for your symptoms.
An app for your everyday movement habit.
Unknot brings body-area routines, illustrated instructions, and a timer together. Coming to iPhone and Android.
App Store / Google Play