Lower back pain can affect your work, training, sleep and everyday life. Whether it started suddenly or has been building for months, the right assessment and treatment plan can make a significant difference.
At Applied Motion, we identify what is contributing to your pain, explain it clearly and help you rebuild the strength and confidence to return to the activities that matter to you.
What is lower back pain?
Lower back pain is discomfort felt between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the pelvis. It may feel sharp, dull, stiff or achy and can sometimes travel into the buttock or leg. It is commonly described as:
Acute:
present for less than six weeks, often following a particular movement or increase in activity.
Chronic:
lasting longer than three months and often influenced by several physical, lifestyle and nervous system factors.
Most low back pain is not caused by serious damage. Although symptoms can be intense, the majority of cases respond well to appropriate movement, progressive exercise and rehabilitation.
Common causes and presentations
Lower back pain may involve irritation of the joints, discs, muscles, nerves or surrounding soft tissues. Common presentations include:
- Muscle or soft tissue strains
- Disc irritation or disc bulges
- Facet joint irritation
- Sciatica or nerve-related leg pain
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Pain related to changes in training, workload or movement tolerance
Scans do not always explain why someone is experiencing pain. Findings such as disc bulges are common in people without symptoms, which is why we assess the person rather than relying on imaging alone.
Common symptoms
You may experience:
- Aching, stiffness or sharp lower back pain
- Pain with bending, lifting, sitting or standing
- Muscle tightness or spasm
- Pain travelling into the buttock or leg
- Numbness, tingling or weakness
- Difficulty moving after rest or first thing in the morning
How we assess your back pain
Your first appointment is about understanding your symptoms, goals and the demands you need your body to handle. Your assessment may include:
- A detailed discussion of your symptoms and history
- Screening for serious or nerve-related conditions
- Assessment of your movement and range of motion
- Strength, control and flexibility testing
- Specific testing of the back, hips, pelvis and nerves
- Advice on whether imaging or further medical review is necessary
From there, we develop a clear plan based on what you need to return to.
What to expect
How we treat lower back pain
Our approach is active, individualised and focused on long-term results.
Clear explanations
We help you understand what may be driving your symptoms and what you can safely do. Reducing fear and building confidence are important parts of recovery.
Hands-on treatment
Joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques may be used to reduce pain and improve movement, particularly during the early stages.
Exercise rehabilitation
Your rehabilitation program will gradually restore movement, control and tolerance to everyday activities.
Strength training
We progressively strengthen your back, hips, trunk and legs so your body is better prepared for work, training and sport.
Return to work, gym or sport
We bridge the gap between feeling better and being fully prepared. Your plan will be progressed toward the lifting, running, training or occupational demands that matter to you.
Long Term Support
Our goal is not simply to settle your pain. It is to help you return stronger, more capable and more confident in your back.
Why choose Applied Motion?
- Thorough and individualised assessments
- Active, evidence-based rehabilitation
- Experience in physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and sports rehabilitation
- Clear plans for returning to work, training and sport
- A focus on long-term confidence rather than temporary symptom relief
Prefer to speak with us? Call 08 9284 0736.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I rest when I have back pain?
For most people, gentle activity is better than prolonged bed rest. We can help you modify painful activities while keeping you moving safely.
Is exercise safe when my back hurts?
Yes, when the exercises and intensity are appropriate for your current tolerance. Progressive exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve back pain and restore function.
Can physiotherapy help sciatica?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help manage nerve irritation, restore movement and gradually rebuild your ability to sit, walk, work and train. Most cases improve without surgery.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI?
Most cases of low back pain do not require imaging. We will recommend further investigation when your symptoms or assessment indicate it is necessary.
How long will recovery take?
Many acute episodes improve within several weeks. Persistent or recurring pain may require a longer, progressive rehabilitation plan. We will provide a realistic timeframe following your assessment.
How long will recovery take?
Many acute episodes improve within several weeks. Persistent or recurring pain may require a longer, progressive rehabilitation plan. We will provide a realistic timeframe following your assessment.