Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people see a physiotherapist, and the good news is that most cases are not serious and improve with the right movement and load management. Rather than long-term rest, current evidence supports staying active, gradually rebuilding strength, and addressing the specific structures and habits driving your pain.
We assess how your back moves and loads, rule out anything that needs referral, and build a graded plan combining hands-on treatment with progressive exercise so you can move confidently again. Education is a big part of it — understanding that bending and loading your back is safe is often the turning point.
Most people with lower back pain start to settle within a few weeks. We begin by easing your pain and confirming there's nothing that needs referral, then gradually rebuild your capacity to bend, lift and sit through progressive exercise and hands-on treatment. The goal isn't just to settle this episode but to make your back more resilient so it's less likely to flare again.
Most cases of lower back pain settle with the right care, but see a physiotherapist or your GP if you notice:
For most lower back pain, staying gently active speeds recovery. Prolonged bed rest tends to make things worse. We'll help you find the right level of movement for your stage.
Usually not. Most lower back pain does not require imaging, and scans often show changes that are normal for your age. We screen for the small number of cases that do warrant a scan or referral.
No — bending and lifting are normal, safe movements the back is built for. Avoiding them long-term can actually make you more sensitive. See our article 'Bending the Back is OK'.
Most episodes improve noticeably within two to six weeks with the right movement and load management, though timeframes vary. We give you a realistic estimate after assessing you.
Most disc-related back pain settles with conservative care — graded movement, exercise and time — without surgery. We assess your case and refer on in the small number that need more.
There is no single best exercise — the right one depends on your presentation and stage. We prescribe and progress exercises specific to you rather than a generic routine.
We treat lower back pain at our Horningsea Park (2171) and Gregory Hills (2557) clinics and across South West Sydney. No referral needed, with on-the-spot HICAPS health-fund rebates.
Ready to get started? Book your physiotherapy appointment online or call us on 0451 768 747.
Pegasus Peak Physiotherapy provides hands-on, evidence-based care across South West Sydney from two clinics.
Pegasus Peak Physiotherapy is rated 5.0 stars from 80+ Google reviews across our Horningsea Park and Gregory Hills clinics.
Phone: 0451 768 747 · Email: [email protected]