Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy, affecting up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives. Whether your pain started suddenly after lifting something heavy or has been bothering you for months, early assessment and evidence-based treatment can help restore movement and reduce the risk of long-term disability. At SAI Health Adelaide, our experienced physiotherapists provide personalised treatment for acute and chronic back pain, helping you return to work, sport, and everyday activities with confidence.
Understanding Acute and Chronic Back Pain
Lower back pain is generally classified into two categories:
Acute back pain develops suddenly and usually lasts from a few days to six weeks. It is commonly caused by muscle strains, ligament sprains, poor lifting technique, or sudden movements. Most people recover well with appropriate physiotherapy and staying active.
Chronic back pain persists for more than 12 weeks and may be related to ongoing muscle weakness, poor posture, spinal degeneration, arthritis, or previous injuries. Chronic pain often requires a structured rehabilitation program rather than rest alone.
Common Symptoms of Lower Back Pain
You should consider seeing a physiotherapist if you experience:
- Persistent lower back pain or stiffness
- Pain when bending, lifting, or sitting for long periods
- Muscle spasms in the lumbar region
- Pain radiating into the buttocks or legs (sciatica)
- Reduced flexibility and difficulty walking or standing
- Recurring episodes of back pain
If your back pain is accompanied by numbness, significant leg weakness, or bladder or bowel changes, seek urgent medical assessment.
What Causes Back Pain?
Many factors can contribute to lower back pain, including:
- Poor posture while sitting or working
- Heavy lifting and workplace injuries
- Sports injuries and repetitive movements
- Weak core muscles
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Arthritis and age-related spinal changes
- Sedentary lifestyle and prolonged sitting
Identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective long-term treatment.
How SAI Health Treats Back Pain
At SAI Health, we don’t just treat the symptoms—we identify the root cause of your pain and create a personalised rehabilitation plan.
Comprehensive Assessment
We evaluate posture, movement, muscle strength, flexibility, and spinal function to determine the source of your pain.
Hands-on Physiotherapy
Manual therapy helps reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and relieve muscle tension.
Exercise Rehabilitation
Individualised strengthening and mobility exercises improve core stability and prevent recurring back pain.
Posture & Lifestyle Education
We teach safe lifting techniques, workplace ergonomics, and daily movement strategies for long-term spinal health.
Why Choose Physiotherapy for Back Pain?
Research shows that remaining active and participating in guided exercise is one of the most effective treatments for non-specific lower back pain. Physiotherapy helps improve mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, reduce inflammation, and prevent future episodes of pain.
Patients commonly experience benefits such as:
- Faster recovery from acute injuries
- Improved posture and spinal stability
- Reduced chronic pain and stiffness
- Better flexibility and movement
- Safe return to work and sport
- Lower risk of recurring back pain
Why Choose SAI Health Adelaide?
- Acute Lower Back Pain
- Chronic Back Pain
- Sciatica & Nerve Pain
- Sports Back Injuries
- Postural Back Pain
- Workplace & Lifting Injuries
- Rehabilitation & Exercise Therapy
Book Your Back Pain Assessment Today
Don’t let back pain limit your life. Whether you’re experiencing sudden lower back pain or struggling with chronic discomfort, the team at SAI Health Adelaide is here to help.
