Understanding back pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people miss work or struggle with everyday movement. It can come on suddenly from lifting or an awkward movement, build gradually from poor posture or prolonged sitting, or stem from a specific spinal condition. The lower back in particular bears significant load through the spine, discs, and surrounding muscles - when any part is strained, pain and stiffness often follow.
Common causes we see
- Muscle and ligament strain - overuse or sudden strain to the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine
- Disc injury - bulging or herniated discs that can press on nearby nerves
- Sciatica - nerve pain radiating from the lower back down the leg, often due to nerve compression
- Postural pain - pain linked to prolonged sitting, poor workstation setup, or repetitive movement patterns
- Degenerative changes - wear-related changes in the spine that develop over time, including osteoarthritis
How we treat back pain at Mi Physio
Every treatment plan starts with a thorough assessment to understand what's actually driving your back pain. From there, your physiotherapist builds a plan that may include:
- Hands-on manual therapy to reduce pain and restore movement
- A tailored exercise and core strengthening programme
- Postural and movement assessment, particularly for desk-based or repetitive work
- Acupuncture or dry needling as part of a broader management plan, where appropriate
- Guidance on safe return to work, sport, or daily activities
When to see a physio for back pain
It's worth booking an assessment if you're experiencing:
- Back pain that hasn't improved after a few days of rest
- Pain, numbness, or tingling radiating down one or both legs
- Pain that limits sitting, standing, bending, or daily activities
- Ongoing or recurring back pain following a previous injury
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see a physio for back pain?
No referral is necessary. Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly for assessment and treatment.
Is back pain physiotherapy covered by ACC?
If your back pain is the result of an injury, it's likely covered by ACC. If it isn't injury-related, we're still happy to treat you privately, and can provide receipts for private insurance claims.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the cause and severity of your back pain. Your physiotherapist will discuss an expected treatment timeline after your initial assessment.
