Lower Back Pain Treatment

Most acute episodes improve substantially within two to six weeks, with the sharpest pain often easing in the first few days. Recovery depends on the underlying cause, how long symptoms have been present, and how consistently the exercise program is followed. Recurring or long standing pain generally takes longer and benefits from a structured rehabilitation plan. Your physiotherapist can give you a clearer timeframe after your initial assessment, and outcomes vary between individuals.

Gentle movement is generally preferred over prolonged bed rest. Lying still for long periods tends to increase stiffness and can make it harder to get going again. Short walks, comfortable range of movement, and prescribed exercises help maintain mobility and circulation. Activity may need to be modified rather than stopped altogether. If a particular movement sharply increases your symptoms, ease off it and raise it with your physiotherapist.

No. Physiotherapists in Australia are primary contact practitioners, so you can book directly without seeing a GP first. A referral or care plan is only required if you intend to claim through Medicare, WorkCover, TAC, or NDIS. Private health insurance extras cover generally does not require a referral. Our reception team can talk you through which pathway applies to your situation before you attend.

Most cases do not require imaging early on. Scans frequently show age-related changes in people with no pain at all, which means results can be misleading rather than helpful. Your physiotherapist conducts a clinical assessment to guide treatment and screen for red flags. If your symptoms are not progressing as expected, or if concerning signs are present, they may recommend imaging and refer you to your GP or a specialist.

Dry needling can help reduce deep muscle tension through the lumbar and gluteal region, which for some people contributes meaningfully to their pain and stiffness. It is used as one part of a broader plan rather than as a standalone treatment, and is typically combined with hands-on therapy and exercise. Most of our clinicians are certified in dry needling. Suitability is assessed before treatment, and responses differ from person to person.

Heat is generally more useful for the muscle spasm and stiffness that accompany most lower back episodes. A heat pack applied for ten to twenty minutes, with a cloth barrier to protect the skin, can make movement easier. Ice may suit some acute injuries where there is a clear traumatic cause. Neither resolves the underlying issue on its own, so pair them with gentle movement and physiotherapy guidance.

There is no single correct position. Choose whatever allows you to sleep, since sleep quality strongly influences pain. Many people find comfort lying on their side with a pillow between the knees, or on their back with a pillow supporting the knees. If mornings are consistently your worst time, mention it at your appointment, as it can point toward specific contributing factors worth addressing.

Yes. Long standing back pain responds to physiotherapy, though the approach differs from an acute episode. Rather than focusing on short-term pain relief, treatment emphasises graded exercise, building load tolerance, addressing contributing lifestyle factors, and rebuilding confidence in movement. Shockwave therapy may be considered where clinically appropriate. Progress is usually gradual, and realistic goals are set with you at the outset.

Recurrence is common, particularly when the contributing factors have not been addressed. Continuing your home exercise program, maintaining core and hip strength, managing workload spikes, and staying generally active all reduce the likelihood of future episodes. Early intervention when symptoms begin to reappear is often beneficial. Your physiotherapist will discuss a maintenance plan with you once your symptoms have settled.

Yes. Both our Richmond and South Yarra clinics hold same day appointments, and we are open seven days a week. Call (03) 8395 4050, send us a text, or book online. If you are in significant pain, mention it when booking so we can prioritise a suitable time and clinician for you.