Low Back Pain
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a physiotherapist, and one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. The good news: the vast majority of cases respond very well to the right physiotherapy approach. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden onset from lifting or a slow-building ache from desk work, our team can help you understand what’s going on and get on top of it.
What Causes Low Back Pain?
Low back pain is rarely caused by a single thing. Common contributors include:
- Muscle and ligament strain: Often from sudden movements, heavy lifting, or prolonged static postures
- Disc issues: Disc bulges or degeneration can irritate nearby nerves
- Facet joint irritation: Small joints in the spine that can become stiff or inflamed
- Poor movement patterns: Habitual postures and movement strategies that load the spine unevenly
- Lifestyle factors: Inactivity, poor sleep, stress, and obesity all increase risk
Symptoms
- Dull, aching or sharp pain in the lower back
- Pain that refers into the buttock or down the leg (may indicate nerve involvement)
- Stiffness and difficulty bending, twisting or standing up straight
- Muscle spasm
- Pain that’s worse in the morning or after prolonged sitting
Our Assessment Approach
A thorough assessment is essential — back pain has many drivers and “one size fits all” treatment doesn’t work. We’ll assess:
- Your movement patterns and posture
- Muscle strength and flexibility
- Nerve function
- Lifestyle and activity levels
- Any red flags requiring medical review or imaging
Treatment
Hands-On Care
- Joint mobilisation and manipulation
- Soft tissue release and dry needling
- Neural mobilisation where nerve irritation is present
Exercise & Rehabilitation
- Core stability and motor control retraining
- Progressive strengthening of the lower back, hip and gluteal muscles
- Flexibility and mobility work
- Clinical Pilates for ongoing strength and control
Education & Self-Management
- Load management and activity modification
- Ergonomic advice for work and home
- Pain neuroscience education
- Return to activity planning
Prevention
Staying active is the single most effective long-term strategy. Our physios will help you build sustainable exercise habits, address contributing factors, and give you the tools to manage flare-ups when they happen.
