Lower Back Pain
Lower Back Pain Physiotherapy in Mornington
Lower back pain is one of the most common conditions we treat at Peak Motion and one of the most mismanaged.
For most people, the instinct is to rest, wait and hope it settles. But for the many people whose pain keeps returning, that approach misses the point entirely. Lower back pain that comes back is telling you something, that the underlying cause hasn’t been addressed.
At Peak Motion, we treat lower back pain differently. We look beyond the site of pain to understand what’s driving it, address the weakness or movement pattern that’s contributing and build a plan that creates lasting results, not just temporary relief.
Why Lower Back Pain Keeps Coming Back
Lower back pain rarely happens in isolation. It’s almost always connected to how the body moves, how it loads and where it’s lacking the strength or mobility to support itself properly.
For some patients it’s a workplace or lifestyle issue, long hours at a desk, repetitive movements or physically demanding work that the body isn’t adequately conditioned for. For others it’s a sports or activity-related pattern, a weakness or compensation that places load on the wrong structures over time. And for many, it’s a previous injury that was treated for symptoms but never fully rehabilitated.
Common contributing factors include:
- Muscle weakness or imbalance
- Poor movement patterns under load
- Prolonged sitting or sedentary periods
- Inadequate recovery between physical demands
- Previous injuries that were never fully rehabilitated
- Workplace ergonomics and repetitive strain
Sciatica and Nerve-Related Back Pain
Sciatica is one of the most commonly searched conditions we treat and one of the most commonly misunderstood.
Sciatica describes pain that travels from the lower back down through the buttock and into the leg, often accompanied by numbness, tingling or weakness. It’s caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, most commonly from a disc bulge, herniation or tight surrounding musculature.
At Peak Motion, we assess sciatica carefully to identify the specific cause and structure a rehabilitation plan around it. For most patients, a combination of hands-on treatment, nerve mobility work and progressive strengthening produces significant and lasting improvement, without the need for surgery or ongoing medication.
Conditions We Treat
Lumbar muscle strains
Disc bulges and herniations
Sciatica and nerve-related pain
Facet joint dysfunction
Sacroiliac joint pain
Chronic lower back pain
Sports-related lumbar injuries
Postural lower back pain
Work-related back injuries
Pre and post-surgical spinal rehabilitation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help with chronic lower back pain?
Yes and it’s one of the most effective treatments available. The key is identifying what’s actually driving the pain, not just managing the symptoms. Our approach combines manual therapy, strength work and movement rehabilitation to address both.
When should I see a physiotherapist for lower back pain?
We recommend seeing a physiotherapist if your lower back pain lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, or limits your ability to move comfortably. Signs it’s time to get help include persistent stiffness, pain that spreads to your legs, muscle weakness, or difficulty with everyday activities like walking, bending, or standing. Early treatment can prevent the issue from getting worse and support a faster, more effective recovery.
Can physiotherapy help with sciatica?
Yes. Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for sciatica. We identify the source of nerve irritation, work to reduce it through hands-on treatment and targeted exercise, and build the strength around the lower back and hip to prevent it from recurring.
What techniques are used in treatment?
We use a combination of hands-on manual therapy, targeted strengthening, movement rehabilitation, and load management, all built around your specific presentation and goals.
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. You can book directly with us at any time. If your GP refers you under a Chronic Disease Management plan, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates.
Book An Appointment
We’d love to help you feel better! Give us a call or book your appointment online