What Is Back Pain?
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek care at Bribie Island Physiotherapy and Lifestyle Gym. It affects up to 80% of people at some stage, often in the lower back, and can range from mild discomfort to disabling pain.
Whether your pain is recent or long-term, our team of experienced physiotherapists and exercise physiologists uses the latest research and personalised care to help you move better and live pain-free.
❌ Myths About Back Pain
Many people delay treatment due to common misconceptions. Let’s clear up a few:
• MYTH: “I need a scan to find out what’s wrong.”
FACT: Most back pain doesn’t show up clearly on scans and resolves with conservative care.
• MYTH: “I should rest until it goes away.”
FACT: Staying active and building strength leads to faster recovery.
• MYTH: “Something must be seriously damaged.”
FACT: Most back pain is non-specific and not due to major structural problems.
• MYTH: “Bending or lifting will make it worse.”
FACT: Movement is safe and essential for recovery when guided appropriately.
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain is usually the result of multiple overlapping factors, including:
Physical:
• Muscle tightness or strain
• Joint stiffness
• Disc irritation
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting
• Weak core or back muscles
Lifestyle & Psychological:
• Inactivity or sudden overload
• High stress or anxiety levels
• Poor sleep quality
• Fear of movement
The 2023 Lancet Low Back Pain Series emphasises that long-term back pain is best managed with active, person-centred care – not scans, rest, or passive treatments.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a common type of back-related pain that involves irritation of the sciatic nerve, which travels from the lower back down each leg.
Symptoms may include:
• Sharp, shooting or burning pain down the leg
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness in the leg or foot
• Pain that worsens when sitting or standing for long periods
Sciatica is a symptom, not a diagnosis — and it can often be managed successfully without surgery.
How We Treat Back Pain and Sciatica at Bribie Island Physiotherapy and Lifestyle Gym
We offer a combined approach using physiotherapy and evidence-based exercise therapy, tailored to your needs:
1️⃣ Comprehensive Assessment
We identify your pain drivers, movement patterns, and goals.
2️⃣ Education & Reassurance
Understanding your pain is the first step to recovery. We help you separate fact from fear.
3️⃣ Active Exercise Therapy
Delivered by our Accredited Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists, your program may include:
• Strengthening of your core and postural muscles
• Movement retraining and flexibility
• Safe lifting and bending practice
• Nerve gliding exercises for sciatica
4️⃣ Manual Therapy (as needed)
Hands-on treatment to improve mobility and relieve pain in the short term.
5️⃣ Lifestyle Coaching & Ergonomic Advice
We guide you on posture, sleep, stress, and sustainable movement habits.
Backed by Latest Research
At Bribie Island Physiotherapy and Lifestyle Gym, we base our care on:
• 2023 Lancet Series on Low Back Pain
• Australian Physiotherapy & ESSA Guidelines
• Exercise is Medicine® Australia
• Latest neuroscience of pain and recovery
Why Choose Us?
• Science-backed, movement-first philosophy
• Experienced physiotherapists and exercise physiologists
• On-site lifestyle gym for guided rehab
• Conveniently located on Bribie Island
• Friendly, supportive care that puts you first