_ai.png)
Why Back Pain Keeps Coming Back
Lower back pain can look the same on the surface but have very different contributing factors. It might involve a disc, stiffness through the hips, factors around the sacroiliac joint, or restricted movement through the mid-back that may place more demand on the lower back. That is why looking beyond the spot that hurts can be an important part of assessment.
Dr Samantha Evans holds a Master of Osteopathic Medicine and has spent eight years as a sports trainer for AFL and VFL umpires, so she has assessed how the body loads and moves under real pressure. That whole-body assessment is where every plan starts here at Reformative Health, helping guide which techniques we use and, just as importantly, what you do between appointments.
Back Pain We Regularly See
-
Lower back pain and stiffness from lifting, training or long periods of sitting.
-
Disc-related pain and referred pain into the leg, including sciatica-type symptoms.
-
Sacroiliac joint and pelvic discomfort.
-
Postural tension through the mid and upper back.
-
Back pain linked to sport and heavier training loads.
How We Treat Back Pain
Treatment here at Reformative Health is hands-on and tailored to what your assessment shows. Depending on your presentation, Sam may use joint mobilisation, soft tissue work and myofascial release to address areas of restriction, along with dry needling or taping where appropriate.
Because what you do between appointments is an important part of your care, you will also leave with practical guidance: how to load your back safely, how to set up your workstation, and specific movements to work on.
Our Move With Me library gives you guided exercises to support your care at home. If your back pain is tied to sport or training, our sports osteopathy page explains how we support active people and athletes.
Supporting Recovery From the Inside
For some people, recurring pain and inflammation may be influenced by factors such as nutrition, sleep and overall recovery. Because Sam is also qualified in naturopathy, she can discuss whether nutritional or lifestyle support may complement your hands-on treatment. You can learn more on our naturopathy page.
When Back Pain Needs
Medical Review
Back pain is common, but some symptoms need prompt medical attention. If you notice numbness around the groin or inner thighs, loss of bladder or bowel control, progressive weakness in a leg, or back pain alongside unexplained weight loss or fever, please seek medical care straight away.
Part of a thorough osteopathic assessment here at Reformative Health is identifying when symptoms may require medical review and referring you on when needed.
If you are tired of managing back pain instead of understanding what may be contributing to it, we would like to help. Book an appointment online or contact our Varsity Lakes clinic, a short drive from Burleigh Heads, Robina and across the southern Gold Coast.
Back Pain Frequently Asked Questions
Can osteopathy help with lower back pain?
Osteopathy may help with many types of musculoskeletal lower back pain by assessing the movement and contributing factors behind your symptoms, not just the painful area. Here at Reformative Health, Sam builds a plan around what your assessment shows.
Is osteopathy safe for a disc issue or sciatica?
Osteopathic care can be appropriate for many disc-related and referred leg symptoms, but it depends on your individual presentation. Sam will assess you thoroughly first and recommend imaging or medical review where appropriate.
Do I need a GP referral to see you?
No referral is needed for a standard appointment. If you are using a GP Chronic Disease Management plan towards the cost of your session, a referral is required and can be arranged where the pain has persisted for six months or more.
Will private health cover my visit?
Many private health funds include cover for osteopathy. Rebates depend on your level of cover, so it is worth checking with your insurer before your appointment.
Get In Touch With Us
If you'd like to book an appointment, or just ask our team a question, simply fill in the form below and we will be in touch very soon.