Acute vs. Chronic Low Back Pain: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek massage therapy, physical care, and even miss days of work. But not all low back pain is the same. Understanding whether your pain is acute or chronic can help guide the best treatment—and help you recover more efficiently.
Let’s break down the differences, causes, and how massage therapy and movement can support your healing journey.
What Is Acute Low Back Pain?
Acute low back pain is sudden and short-term, usually lasting a few days to a few weeks. It’s often triggered by a specific event—like lifting something heavy, twisting awkwardly, falling, or even sleeping in a strange position.
Common Causes:
Muscle strain or sprain
Poor lifting mechanics
Overuse from sudden increase in activity
Minor injury or inflammation
Sleeping posture or prolonged sitting
Symptoms:
Sharp or stabbing pain
Localized tenderness or stiffness
Difficulty moving normally due to pain
May radiate slightly but is usually centered in the low back
Massage & Movement Support:
Massage therapy can help reduce muscle spasms, increase circulation to aid healing, and restore mobility. Gentle stretching, heat therapy, and guided movement (like Pilates or corrective exercise) can prevent stiffness while you heal.
What Is Chronic Low Back Pain?
Chronic low back pain lasts 12 weeks or longer, even after an initial injury has healed. It can come and go, vary in intensity, and may not always have a clear cause.
Common Causes:
Degenerative disc disease or arthritis
Spinal stenosis or herniated discs
Previous injuries that didn’t heal fully
Poor posture and movement habits over time
Chronic inflammation or nerve involvement
Symptoms:
Dull, deep aching or throbbing
Radiating pain down the leg (possibly sciatica)
Tightness, stiffness, or weakness in hips and back
Mental fatigue or frustration due to ongoing discomfort
Massage & Movement Support:
Long-term back pain requires a more holistic, consistent approach. Massage therapy helps relieve chronic tension, improve posture, and reduce pain sensitivity. Combined with core strengthening (like Pilates or personal training), functional mobility, and mindful movement, many people experience significant relief and improvement over time.
Why Knowing the Difference Matters
Acute pain usually resolves with short-term care and rest—but ignoring it can lead to chronic issues.
Chronic pain often needs a layered approach involving massage, fitness, stress relief, and possibly referrals to other providers.
At Active Holistic Therapy, we personalize care for both types of pain—whether you’re in the middle of a flare-up or working toward long-term relief and strength.
When to See a Massage Therapist
Massage therapy is safe and effective for both acute and chronic low back pain. You don’t have to “wait it out” or live in discomfort. We can help:
Ease muscle tension and inflammation
Improve flexibility and posture
Support healing with gentle, skilled touch
Collaborate with your movement or fitness goals
If you’re unsure what kind of pain you’re experiencing, we’ll help assess and create a plan that supports you—no pressure, just support.
Ready to feel better?
Book your session today or contact us with any questions about how massage can help relieve your back pain—whether it’s new, nagging, or long-lasting.