Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek help at ONE HEALTH. Research suggests that around 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their life, regardless of age or gender. While the causes vary, the impact on daily life can be significant – from affecting mobility and work performance to limiting your ability to enjoy everyday activities.
At ONE HEALTH, our experienced practitioners – including Osteopaths, Physiotherapists, and Remedial Massage Therapists – use evidence-informed assessment and manual therapy techniques as part of an individualised approach to help manage and reduce symptoms, support movement, and assist in your recovery.
How we may be able to help
Following a thorough assessment, your practitioner may work with you to:
- Reduce muscle tension and irritation to surrounding tissues
- Support improved joint mobility
- Help shorten the duration of acute back pain episodes
- Provide strategies to help reduce recurrence
- Offer personalised advice on posture, exercise, and stretching
- Suggest ergonomic modifications for your work or home environment
- Provide lifestyle guidance, including hydration, nutrition, and safe movement strategies
- Coordinate with your GP or insurer when required
- Refer for imaging if clinically indicated
When to seek immediate advice
While many cases of back pain are related to muscle or joint strain, in some situations back pain can indicate a more serious condition such as a disc injury, fracture, infection, or other underlying pathology. Osteopaths, as primary healthcare practitioners, are trained to identify when referral to your GP or another specialist is appropriate.
You should seek prompt professional advice if your back pain is:
- Associated with recent trauma or injury
- Getting progressively worse
- Accompanied by numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs
- Associated with bladder or bowel changes
- Present with fever or unexplained weight loss
Common causes of back pain we see in clinic
- Prolonged sitting or standing
- Heavy lifting or repetitive movements
- Sports injuries or accidents
- Pregnancy
- Digestive and pelvic conditions such as constipation, irritable bowel, endometriosis, or menstrual pain
- Muscle weakness or reduced flexibility
- Postural changes
- Biomechanical dysfunction in the hips, legs, or thoracic spine
Everyday tips to support your back
- Seek professional advice early – prevention is often easier than cure
- Keep moving and include gentle exercise daily (with guidance if needed)
- Vary tasks and take regular breaks during repetitive work or heavy labour
- Stay well hydrated to support spinal health
- Ensure adequate protein intake for tissue repair
- Lift carefully, using correct technique
- Use a supportive mattress and ergonomic chair where possible
- Encourage children to carry backpacks evenly and limit prolonged screen time
Book an appointment at ONE HEALTH today to discuss your back pain and explore safe, evidence-informed strategies tailored to your needs.