Low Back Pain | Assessment & Management Physiotherapy Adelaide
At Thrive Health Therapies, we have extensive experience in the treatment and management of low back pain, a condition that affects a significant portion of the population. Our physiotherapists utilise evidence-based approaches to help individuals recover from pain, improve mobility, and prevent future occurrences of back problems.
Understanding Low Back Pain
Low back pain is a common issue affecting up to 80% of individuals at least once in their lifetime. In fact:
60% of people experience some level of low back pain annually.
5% of the population takes time off work due to low back pain.
It is most common in individuals around 40 years old.
The pain can vary in severity from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that affects daily activities. Whether your low back pain is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), early intervention through physiotherapy can help improve outcomes and prevent worsening of symptoms.
Common Low Back Conditions Physiotherapists Treat
Physiotherapists treat a variety of low back conditions, including both acute and chronic issues. Some of the most common low back conditions that physiotherapists manage include:
Muscle Strains and Ligament Sprains
Overstretching or tearing of muscles or ligaments in the lower back due to sudden movements, lifting heavy objects, or poor posture.
Symptoms: Localised pain, muscle tightness, stiffness, and limited movement.
Herniated Disc (Slipped Disc, Bulging Disc, Prolapsed Disc)
Occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc protrudes through the outer layer, irritating nearby nerves.
Symptoms: Pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, or legs (often associated with sciatica).
Sciatica
Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the leg
Symptoms: Sharp, shooting pain down one leg, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the leg.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Age-related wear and tear of spinal discs, leading to reduced disc height, stiffness, and pain.
Symptoms: Chronic low back pain, stiffness, pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or activity.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
Irritation or inflammation of the small joints at the back of the spine, often caused by poor posture, overuse, or injury.
Symptoms: Localised pain, stiffness, pain with twisting or bending backward.
Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction
Inflammation or misalignment of the SI joint, which connects the pelvis to the lower spine.
Symptoms: Pain in the lower back, buttocks, and sometimes down the leg.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on nerves and the spinal cord.
Symptoms: Pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the lower back and legs, often worsened by standing or walking.
Spondylolisthesis
A condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, often due to stress fractures or degenerative changes.
Symptoms: Lower back pain, muscle tightness, and nerve compression symptoms.
Osteoarthritis of the Spine
Wear-and-tear arthritis affecting the joints and discs of the spine.
Symptoms: Stiffness, pain, reduced mobility, and inflammation in the lower back.
Mechanical Low Back Pain (Non-Specific Low Back Pain)
General back pain without a specific structural cause, often due to muscle imbalances, poor posture, or overuse.
Symptoms: Aching, stiffness, discomfort with movement.
Postural Syndrome
Chronic back pain due to poor posture, prolonged sitting, or incorrect movement patterns.
Symptoms: Dull ache, stiffness, and discomfort in the lower back.
Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain & Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
Back pain due to changes in posture, weight distribution, and hormonal influences during pregnancy.
Symptoms: Lower back pain, pelvic pain, difficulty walking or standing for long periods.
Typical Treatment for Low Back Pain
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective approaches for managing and treating low back pain. At Thrive Health Therapies, we offer tailored physiotherapy treatments, including:
Comprehensive Assessment
Our experienced physiotherapists conduct a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your low back pain. This includes evaluating movement patterns, posture, muscle strength, and flexibility to develop a personalised treatment plan.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, and spinal manipulation can help reduce pain, improve movement, and promote healing.
Exercise Therapy
A structured exercise program focusing on strengthening core muscles, improving flexibility, and restoring proper movement patterns is essential for long-term recovery and prevention of recurrent pain.
Postural and Ergonomic Advice
We provide guidance on maintaining correct posture while sitting, standing, and lifting to reduce strain on the lower back. Workplace ergonomics can also be adjusted to support a healthier spine.
Pain Management Strategies
Physiotherapy incorporates various pain management techniques, including heat or ice therapy, electrotherapy (TENS), and relaxation strategies to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
Education and Self-Management
Understanding your condition and learning how to manage symptoms at home is key to long-term recovery. We provide education on movement modifications, home exercises, and lifestyle changes to support your healing journey.
Book an Appointment
If you are experiencing low back pain, don't let it impact your daily life. Thrive Health Therapies can help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free. Contact us today to book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists.
Take control of your back health with expert physiotherapy at Thrive Health Therapies!
How We Deliver Physiotherapy at Thrive Health Therapies
At Thrive Health Therapies, we offer community-based, clinic-based and telehealth physiotherapy services to clients throughout metropolitan Adelaide:
Community-Based Services: We provide community-based services in your home, at school, or at a location convenient to you throughout metropolitan Adelaide.
Clinic-Based Services: We provide clinic-based services in our specialised clinic in Findon, which has been designed to be appropriate for a range of presentations and disabilities. Our fully accessible clinic and gym space has a range of specialised equipment, allowing individuals with significant physical disabilities the opportunity to work towards their goals.
Telehealth Services: We also offer comprehensive telehealth services, providing clients with convenient, video-based therapy consultations for those who may have difficulty travelling to our clinic or prefer the convenience of remote support.
Funding Options for Physiotherapy
We accept a variety of funding options, making physiotherapy accessible for everyone:
Private Health Insurance
Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plans (GP Team Care Arrangements)
Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)
Why Choose Our Physiotherapists?
No wait time: We can start working with teenage or adult clients straight away!
Experienced: Our physiotherapists are senior clinicians with years of experience working with a wide range of presentations.
Extensive Coverage in the community: We serve a large geographical area, providing physiotherapy across all of metropolitan Adelaide from Gawler to Aldinga. We see clients at home, in their school, or at a location convenient to them. Learn more about our service areas.
Clinic space: Our fully accessible clinic and gym in Findon has been specially designed to be appropriate for a wide range of presentations and disabilities.
Individualised care: Every client receives a personalised therapy plan based on their unique needs and goals.
Neuroaffirming Practice: We provide compassionate and affirming services to support and empower neurodiverse individuals.
Multi-Disciplinary Approach: We offer a wide range of allied health services under one roof, allowing for a holistic approach to your health. Learn more about our team.
NDIS Provider: We provide services to National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants.
Funding Options: We accept a variety of funding options, helping our clients access the support they need.
LGBTQIA+ Friendly: We celebrate, value and include people of all backgrounds, genders, and sexualities, Our Findon clinic is a welcoming, safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQIA+ people and families.
FAQs About Low Back Pain
If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact our friendly team on 0474 248 081 or email enquiries@thrivehealththerapies.com
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Recovery time varies depending on the severity and cause of the pain. Acute low back pain may improve within a few days to weeks, while chronic conditions may require longer-term management.
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Physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function, but long-term management strategies may be needed to prevent recurrence, especially for chronic conditions.
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The frequency of sessions depends on your specific condition. Your physiotherapist will recommend a schedule based on your needs, usually starting with more frequent visits that taper off as you improve.
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Core strengthening, stretching, and posture-improving exercises are typically recommended. Your physiotherapist will design a personalised program tailored to your condition.
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If your pain persists for more than a few days, worsens, or affects your daily activities, seeking physiotherapy can help address the issue early and prevent further complications.
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