Low back pain is the most common reason Australians see a physiotherapist, and the good news is that the great majority of episodes are not caused by serious damage. A physiotherapist's job is to rule out the rare serious causes, explain what is actually driving your pain, settle the acute episode, and then build the strength and confidence that stops it coming back.
What causes low back pain
Most episodes are what clinicians call non-specific low back pain: an irritated mix of joints, discs and muscles that has been overloaded, often by something unremarkable like gardening, a heavy week at work or a long drive. A smaller group involves disc injuries irritating a nerve root, which can send pain, pins and needles or weakness down the leg, commonly called sciatica. Degenerative change shows up on almost every scan over 40 and correlates poorly with pain, which is why we do not send every sore back for imaging.
How we treat it
- Assessment first. Movement testing, strength testing and neurological screening where leg symptoms are present.
- Settling the episode. Hands-on treatment, specific exercise and clear advice on what to keep doing. Bed rest is no longer recommended for back pain and has not been for years.
- Rebuilding. A progressive strength program for the trunk, hips and legs, matched to what you need to get back to, whether that is surfing, lifting grandchildren or a physical job.
- Prevention. Load management and a maintenance plan, because the biggest risk factor for a back episode is a previous one.
When back pain needs more than physio
See a doctor promptly, and tell us immediately, if back pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the saddle region, progressive leg weakness, unexplained weight loss, fever, or follows significant trauma. These are uncommon, but they are the presentations where imaging and medical review come first. We screen for them at every initial consultation and refer straight on when anything does not fit.
Rebates for ongoing back problems
Long-running back pain often qualifies as a chronic condition. Your GP can refer you under a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan for Medicare-rebated physiotherapy visits, explained on our fees and rebates page. Work-related back injuries are treated under WorkCover Queensland claims.
Back gone again?
Call us and we will get you moving. Most acute backs improve substantially within a few weeks with the right plan.
Call (07) 5221 5254Do I need a scan before physio?
Usually no. Clinical guidelines recommend against routine imaging for low back pain because scan findings correlate poorly with pain and rarely change early management. We refer for imaging when the assessment suggests it will change what we do.
Is walking good for back pain?
For most people yes, and it is one of the best-evidenced things you can do. We will tell you if your presentation is one of the exceptions.
How many sessions will I need?
An uncomplicated acute episode often needs only a handful of visits plus a home program. Longstanding or recurrent problems need a longer strength-based plan, and we will give you an honest estimate at the first appointment.