Physiotherapy for Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy—and one of the most treatable. At Thrive Health Group, we help you move from pain to possibility with clear assessment, tailored care, and practical strategies for long-term relief.

Possible Causes of Lower Back Pain

Back pain can stem from many sources, and often involves more than just the spine:

  • Postural overload: Prolonged sitting, poor lifting technique, or repetitive strain

  • Muscle imbalance: Weak core, tight hip flexors, or gluteal underuse

  • Joint or disc changes: Age-related wear, inflammation, or disc irritation

  • Nerve involvement: Sciatica or referred pain from nerve compression

  • Stress and tension: Emotional load can amplify physical discomfort

  • Pelvic connections: Pelvic issues may influence spinal mechanics

  • Sleep and movement habits: Inactivity or awkward sleeping positions

Lower Back Pain Assessment

We begin with a comprehensive, whole-body approach:

  • Detailed history: Understanding your pain story, lifestyle, and goals

  • Movement screening: Observing how you bend, twist, sit, and walk

  • Neurological checks: Testing reflexes, sensation, and strength

  • Pelvic integration: Exploring links between the spine and pelvis

  • Functional tasks: Assessing how your back responds to real-life movements

Our goal is to uncover the “why” behind your pain—not just treat the symptoms.

Treatment Options

Your care plan is personalized, practical, and empowering:

  • Manual therapy: Mobilizing joints, easing muscle tension, and restoring movement

  • Exercise therapy: Core strengthening, mobility work, and motor control retraining

  • Postural and ergonomic coaching: For work, home, and sleep

  • Pain science education: Helping you understand and reframe your experience

  • Pelvic integration: If relevant, we address these systems holistically

  • Self-management tools: Stretches, supports, and movement strategies for daily life

We also collaborate with GPs, specialists, and other allied health professionals to ensure your care is cohesive and complete.

Do I Need a Scan?

Often, no. Most lower back pain can be assessed and treated without imaging. A scan may be considered if:

  • You have persistent or worsening symptoms

  • There are signs of nerve compression (e.g. numbness, tingling, weakness)

  • You’ve experienced significant trauma

  • Your clinician suspects a more complex or structural issue

We’ll guide you through this decision with clarity and compassion—always aiming to reduce fear and build confidence.