Appropriate Care When You Need It - Same Day Appointments!
Pain Relief From The Very First Appointment
Our expert team of physiotherapists are well trained and very experienced in treatment of lower back pain. Our Spinal program is designed based specifically on the latest guideliness and evidence from treatments that work best in both acute and chronic back pain. We use a wide range of modalites to ensure that you are in less pain starting from the very first appointment! We understand the impact of lower back pain in your everyday life and therefore we aim to provide same day physiotherapy appointments accross our Richmond and South Yarra Clinics.
We can help you Today!
Whether you have had an episode of sudden acute back pain, or you have had recurrent lower back pain for weeks, months or years – we have seen it all. Majority of our patient case load at both our Richmond and South Yarra clinics come it to see us for a variety of spinal injuries. Lower back pain, with or without sciatica (leg pain) is probably the most common injury we attend to on a daily basis.
The good news? – The more common the injury, the more effective, evidence-based treatments there are to treat it.
If you are researching on a treatment, chances are you have experienced one of two, an acute episode of lower back pain or an ongoing recurrent episode of lower back pain.
An acute episode, especially a first-time episode, is usually very painful, it limits movements and mobility, and you may be finding it very hard to change position. Very likely you were moving a piece of furniture, exercising with weights or even just working in your garden. What you have just experienced is an acute overload of the lumbar spine with significant muscle spasm. Our advice is to use a heat pack for 30 minutes and let the pain calm down. Give us a call and we can see you on the same day and help you get back to moving.
A longer term, reoccurring pain is a sign of a previous injury which may not have been appropriately managed, or you simply may have injured it again. Just like an acute episode, chronic and reoccurring back pain also initially results in muscle spasms which may limit movement and mobility. The latest guidelines on management of lower back pain outline the importance of physiotherapy and rehabilitation and recommends it as the first line of treatment for anyone with lower back pain. In addition to traditional hands-on treatments and exercises, all our clinicians are trained in Dry needling and Shockwave therapy, two very effective treatments for pain reduction in the lower back.
Our Spinal Program is designed around three principals; Eliminate the Pain, Restore Mobility and Prevent Reoccurrence. See one of our physiotherapists at either of our clinics in Richmond or South Yarra and we will do our best to treat you today.
What People Ask Us
How can I deal with lower back pain?
Physiotherapists use hands-on treatment, tailored exercises, and advice on posture and ergonomics to ease pain and speed recovery. Heat packs, massage, and short-term medication (when appropriate) can also help you stay active. It is important to stay active and have some for of mobility to help with the pain.
How do I know if my back pain is serious?
Back pain may not always be a sign of something dangerous. Severe pain and stiffness during an acute episode may concern some people, however, it is recommended to see a healthcare professional to determine the need for an urgent scan. If you notice symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fever, night pain, recent trauma, bladder or bowel changes, or numbness/weakness in your legs, it is recommended that you see a doctor immediately. If possible, head straight to the emergency at a hospital.
What’s the best way to release tension in my lower back?
Short walks, gentle stretches, and targeted core exercises are the best way to ease stiffness. Heat packs can also help relax tight muscles. Avoid lying in bed for long periods, as this usually makes pain worse, especially when you try to get up or change position.
What are the red flags for lower back pain?
Severe or worsening leg weakness
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Numbness in the saddle area
Fever or recent infection
Recent major trauma from sports or a fall
If you have any of these, go directly to the emergency department.
How do I know if it’s back pain or kidney pain?
Kidney pain usually feels deeper in the side or flank and may come with fever, nausea, or changes in urination. If you’re unsure or symptoms don’t match a typical back strain, see your GP as soon as possible.
What does my lower back pain mean?
Majority of the cases of lower back pain (90%) are categorized as mechanical lower back pain. This may be linked to movement, posture, or muscle or joint strain. It doesn’t usually mean structural damage. Pain is often influenced by stress, sleep, and lifestyle factors as well.
What are the 4 categories of back pain?
Mechanical pain (most common)
Radicular pain (sciatica)
Serious spinal pathology (rare, e.g., fracture, infection, cancer)
Other/non-spinal causes (kidney, abdominal, etc.)
Is walking good for lower back pain?
Yes! Walking is one of the safest and most effective ways to keep your back moving. It helps circulation, mobility, and mood.
What is the most common cause of lower back pain?
The majority of cases are non-specific or mechanical linked to posture, overuse, or muscle/joint strain rather than serious disease.
Is heat good for back pain?
Yes. Heat can relax muscles and reduce stiffness, making it easier to move. Use a heat pack for comfort, but combine it with gentle activity.
What is the best sleeping position for back pain?
Choose any position that’s comfortable and lets you sleep well. Some people find relief lying on their side with a pillow between their knees, or on their back with a pillow under their knees.
Is paracetamol or ibuprofen better for back pain?
Research shows ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory medicines can help short-term. Paracetamol alone isn’t very effective for acute back pain, but it may still help if you can’t take anti-inflammatories. Always follow your doctor or pharmacist’s advice.
What if I can barely walk because of back pain?
If severe pain stops you from walking, or if you notice leg weakness, numbness, or bladder/bowel issues, seek urgent care. Otherwise, gradual movement with guidance from a physio is usually best.
Can lower back pain heal on its own?
Yes. Most episodes improve within a few weeks. A physio can help reduce flare-ups and lower the risk of ongoing pain.
Is massage good for lower back pain?
Massage can provide temporary relief, improve sleep, and reduce tension. It works best when combined with exercise and lifestyle advice.
Does Icy Hot or muscle rub help?
Topical creams or gels may provide short-term comfort but won’t fix the underlying cause. They can be used alongside physio treatment and exercise.
How long should I use a heating pad for back pain?
Use heat in short sessions (10–20 minutes) with a cloth barrier to protect your skin. Reapply as needed throughout the day for comfort.