Get it checked at Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty
We see patients from across the Diamond Valley, including Eltham, Greensborough, Montmorency, Rosanna and Heidelberg. No referral needed, free parking, onsite X-ray when clinically indicated and HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Back pain solutions: a guide from the Bodyline Health team at 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty.
Back pain is common – and usually not serious
Most Australians will have back pain at some point. The good news is that most episodes are not caused by serious damage and settle within a few weeks.
Back pain is often the body’s way of saying something is overloaded: long hours sitting, a sudden lift, a busy weekend in the garden or a jump in training.
Back pain solutions you can start today
Keep moving
Gentle walking and normal activity, within comfort, lead to faster recovery than bed rest.
Change position often
Get up every 20–30 minutes if you sit for work or drive long distances.
Use heat
A heat pack can ease muscle spasm and make movement easier.
Sleep support
Try a pillow between your knees when lying on your side, or under your knees on your back.
Ask about pain relief
Your pharmacist or GP can advise on medicines that suit you.
When to get your back assessed
Book an assessment if pain is not improving after a week or two, keeps coming back, travels into your leg, or is stopping you working or sleeping.
At Bodyline Health, an assessment with chiropractor Dr Phillip Mifsud looks at your history, how your spine and hips move, and nerve function in the legs. If X-ray is clinically indicated, it is available onsite.
Back pain solutions that last
Hands-on care
Spinal mobilisation or adjustment, and soft tissue work, can reduce pain and stiffness in the short term.
Exercise
Strength and movement exercises are the long-term solution. They are tailored to your back, your goals and what you enjoy – see our article on the best exercise for back pain.
Look at the load
Desk set-up, lifting technique and training load all matter. Small changes make a big difference.
More on back pain
Read our mechanical lower back pain and sudden back spasm articles, or our pages on disc injury and sciatica.
Who at Bodyline Health can help with back pain?
Because our practitioners work under one roof, your care can be shared between people who talk to each other.
- Dr Phillip Mifsud (Chiropractor): assessment, onsite X-ray when indicated, chiropractic care and an exercise plan.
- Mary Fleming (Physiotherapist): physiotherapy and graded rehabilitation.
- Keryn Arrowsmith (Myotherapist): myotherapy and dry needling for back and hip muscles.
- Jack Robertson (Remedial Massage Therapist): remedial massage for muscle tension.
When to seek urgent medical help
Get urgent medical help if back pain comes with numbness around the groin or buttocks, bladder or bowel changes, leg weakness that is getting worse, fever, unexplained weight loss, or follows a major fall or accident. In an emergency, call 000.
Further reading: Back pain (Healthdirect Australia).
Common questions
Should I rest with back pain?
Short rest when pain is severe is fine, but staying gently active usually helps you recover faster.
Do I need an X-ray for back pain?
Most back pain does not need imaging. It is used when the findings would change your care.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed for a standard appointment at Bodyline Health. HICAPS is available on the spot.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice. If you are unsure, see your GP or book an assessment.
