Physiotherapy For Back Pain

Australia has one of the highest incidences of back pain among its population at all age ranges (and in fact) was the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorder in 2023. Unfortunately, many Australians experience back pain due to a combination of factors including exaggerated workload expectations placed on them, the position they work in daily and the underlying physical condition they are dealing with.

The good news is that physiotherapy offers the best possibility for a complete and lasting recovery from back pain because; it effectively identifies and treats the underlying causes for back pain. Physiotherapy helps to restore healthy movement patterns rather than just treating the pain itself.

Because of this, physiotherapy for back pain is often recommended as a first choice for people wanting long-term improvement.

1. Back Pain’s Common Causes

Seldom is a single problem the cause of back pain. The majority of cases develop gradually, particularly when the spine is subjected to constant stress due to habits or work environments. Below are the most frequent causes often treated with physiotherapy for back pain programs.

Poor alignment

Slouching, rounded shoulders, a forward head position, and long periods of sitting create pressure on the spinal joints and the surrounding soft tissues of the spine resulting in pain and/or chronic pain. This is a very frequent reason for many people to seek physiotherapy for back pain.

strained muscles

Sudden movements, heavy lifting, or repetitive tasks can strain the muscles around the spine, leading to inflammation and tightness.

Bulging or herniated disc

Pain radiating to the legs, sharp pain, or central back pain can all be caused by a disc pressing on adjacent nerves.

Sedentary lifestyle

The lower back is more susceptible to strain when there is little movement because it weakens the core and stabilising muscles.

Work-related injuries

Jobs involving heavy lifting, bending, twisting, or even long hours at a desk can contribute to persistent back pain. According to Safe Work Australia, musculoskeletal issues remain one of the top causes of time off work, reinforcing the need for early intervention and targeted physiotherapy for back pain.

2. How Physiotherapy Helps Back Pain

Physiotherapy targets both the symptoms and the underlying causes. Your physiotherapist may use a combination of hands-on treatments and exercise-based therapies as part of an integrated physiotherapy for back pain plan.

Manual therapy

A combination of hands-on techniques can relieve stiffness in your joints and allow you to move freely again.

Soft tissue techniques

Soft tissue therapy reduces muscle tension, promotes blood flow and reduces pain.

Joint mobilisation

Joint mobilisation techniques involve targeted movements to return your joints to their normal biomechanics. This will improve flexibility in the affected area, relieve irritation from excess load on a joint and provide relief from the pain.

Dry needling

If appropriate, dry needling techniques will be used to treat trigger points within your muscles, allowing for better muscle performance.

3. Best Physiotherapy Treatments Used Today

Below is a helpful comparison of common physiotherapy for back pain treatments:

Treatment Type	What It Does	Best For
Exercise-based rehabilitation	Strengthens supportive muscles and restores movement	Chronic back pain, posture issues
Core strengthening	Builds stability around spine	Weak core, recurring pain
Posture correction	Re-trains alignment and positioning	Desk workers, students
Pain management techniques	Reduces inflammation and discomfort	Acute pain episodes

Rehabilitation through exercise

Exercise-based rehabilitation includes strength training, stretching, and mobility exercises tailored to the individual’s needs to restore movement and help reduce the likelihood of re-injury. Exercise-based rehabilitation is typically a significant portion of physiotherapy for back pain treatment.

Strengthening the core

A strong core stabilises the spinal column. Physiotherapist supplied exercise programmes target the stabilising muscles of the deep abdomen and pelvic floor.

Improving posture

Improving posture through proper retraining reduces compressive force on the spinal column. Your physiotherapist will evaluate your workstation and sitting habits.

Methods for managing pain

Pain management methods include the use of heat/ice, TENS units, education, and pacing methods that may help alleviate some of the painful limitations associated with back injury.

4. When You Should See a Physiotherapist

The presence of certain signs indicates that physiotherapy requires evaluation. Immediate medical care should be obtained whenever there are ‘Red Flags’ present as follows:

• Onset of loss of control over bowel/bladder
• Numbness in the groin region
• Severe trauma injuries

Pain From Lifting

A person who develops pain right after they have lifted an object, twisted their body, or changed positions from one position to another, will develop muscle strain and/or possible involvement of a intervertebral disk.

Leg Pain

When pain travels down the back of the lower extremity (leg) this indicates nerve irritation and possibly Sciatica. By obtaining physiotherapy immediately following back pain prevents the possibility that the pain will get worse in time.

5. Home Exercises for Relieving Back Pain

These exercises can be performed safely at home with guidance from your physiotherapist.

Cat cow

Improves flexibility of the spine by gently moving it through flexion and extension.

Child’s pose stretch

Elongates the spine and reduces tension in the lower back.

Core activation

Simple deep core engagement exercises help improve stability and reduce pain.

Always perform exercises slowly, avoid forcing any movements, and stop immediately if pain worsens.

6. Prevention Tips for LongTerm Results

The following suggestions focus on making small changes to help minimize the level and frequency of back pain for improvement over time.

Correct posture while sitting:

• Feet should be flat on the floor
• Spine should be straight (neutral)
• Do not slouch or lean forward.

Lifting methods:

• When lifting, do not twist your body
• Bend your knees rather than your waist
• Keep objects close to your body

Ergonomic setup at work

The Australian Government’s ergonomic guidelines recommend neutral posture, proper desk height, and regular breaks to reduce musculoskeletal strain. Reassess your workspace regularly, especially if you work from home.

7. How Janalli’s Physio Team Can Help

Janalli’s physiotherapy services provide effective, evidence-based approaches designed around your lifestyle and mobility needs. Our physiotherapists create personalised treatment plans that integrate hands-on therapy and exercise programs tailored to your goals. Whether you require mobility support, pain management, or ongoing physiotherapy for back pain, our team delivers accessible care both in-home and within the community.

Within your care plan, you can also access additional services through our team. Explore our About Us, submit questions through FAQ , or reach our team directly on the Contact Us page.

To understand our broader NDIS supports, you can explore our Registered NDIS Provider in Logan.

8. Local Support from a Registered NDIS Provider in Logan and Surrounding Suburbs

Areas We Support

• Springwood
• Browns Plains
• Beenleigh
• Woodridge
• Logan Central
• Marsden
• Yarrabilba
• Broader Logan City Council region

Why Local Matters
By focusing on the Logan region, our team understands the unique needs of local participants. This ensures support that is accessible, personal, and reliable, whether physiotherapy is delivered at home or as part of your broader NDIS goals.

9. FAQ

Conclusion: Physiotherapy for Back Pain

Back pain can affect every part of daily life, but the right physiotherapy for back pain approach provides long-term relief, improved mobility, and better overall function. Low back pain can have an impact on many aspects of a person’s daily life. However, by following an appropriate course of physiotherapy for the management of to relieve low back pain, enable improved function and increased mobility over time. It is essential to understand the underlying causes of low back pain, develop a personalised treatment plan, and have a plan for preventing recurrence to achieve the best possible outcome. If you would like personalised assistance with your low back pain needs and goals, contact Janalli Services for assistance.

Contact Janalli Services

Looking for a trusted registered NDIS provider in Logan, Queensland?
Janalli Services offers accessible, personalised and reliable care for NDIS participants across the region.

Phone: 0403-258-258
Email: info@janalliservices.com.au

Follow Janalli Services: Registered NDIS Provider in Logan on Facebook for updates, community insights, and helpful support information.