Statistics show that 80% of Australians will experience back pain at stage in their lives, 30% will have a recurrence and 10% of these will experience significant disability as a result. Although these statistics seem scary, appropriate treatment, education and implementation of self-management strategies will drastically improve someone’s outcome with back pain.

Our backs are composed of a vertebral column (vertebrae and discs), nerves which exit our vertebral column, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Any of these structures could be contributing to someone’s pain so an accurate assessment is key to establishing a diagnosis for appropriate management.

‘Hands on’ Physiotherapy can be very effective in easing the initial symptoms; eventual progression to core strengthening and education on posture and correct lifting is invaluable to minimising the risk of future recurrences.